In the past few days, various transport industry stakeholders have told The Advertiser some of their concerns and plans about an issue that is not new, but that needs to be dealt with and resolved.

It’s the lack of an adequate plan, fully costed and then implemented, that will hinder future progress on one of the most challenging policy areas Greater Bendigo faces.

For too long, we have known of the pressures and stresses our rapidly growing population will exert upon existing infrastructure in a broad spectrum of areas.

Now, there needs to be a focus on converting good ideas to practical solutions that can be costed and put back into the public arena as soon as possible for further consultation, and to help inform voters ahead of this year’s state election in November.

The right Road Transport Strategy will be the one that effectively dovetails into other strategies such as those for public transport, car parking, residential and commercial development and the environment.

Whatever plan is ultimately approved, it must provide for an effective reduction in vehicle movements through the heart of Bendigo. This is paramount, but it also has to be achieved without adversely impacting upon business in the CBD.

What do you think? Write a letter to the editor, or e-mail editor@bendigoadvertiser.c om.au