MORE frequent bus services and more services on major routes are being proposed as part of an overhaul of Bendigo bus routes by Public Transport Victoria from next year.
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PTV released a document outlining their plan for a proposed new bus network for Bendigo on Monday.
The proposed overhaul is partly as a result of the transport body reviewing recommendations in the City of Greater Bendigo's Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy.
Among the major changes proposed include new route numbers for all existing services and a new "fast direct" service connecting all Bendigo buses and trains to La Trobe University.
A new cross-town service from Epsom to Kangaroo Flat is proposed, as is a new service to Jackass Flat.
Other changes include an increase in services to and from Eaglehawk, with buses departing every 15 minutes on weekdays, and a more direct service to the city centre from Strathfieldsaye.
City of Greater Bendigo planning and development director Prue Mansfield said the changes proposed by PTV aimed to deliver more frequent bus services and more direct services on major routes.
"These types of improvements are what the Council’s Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy (ITLUS) has been calling for," Ms Mansfield said.
"The City is particularly keen to see the improved train connections at Bendigo Station, with the station to become a major passenger hub for the whole region.
"It is also great see proposals for a new cross-town service operating from Epsom to Kangaroo Flat, plus a new service to Jackass Flat and expansion into growth areas in Strathfieldsaye."
Ms Mansfield warned the changes would also bring disruptions and users needed to educate themselves and "make their views known to PTV".
“The proposed changes seek to make public transport accessible and attractive to more people however for some users there might unintended consequences," she said.
"As this is a significant change to the public transport network in Bendigo, PTV is seeking the community’s feedback.
"Your feedback is important to help us build a better public transport network for Bendigo."
The City of Greater Bendigo is encouraging public transport users to have their say on proposed changes to bus services in Bendigo in the form of three community information sessions in Bendigo this week.
The sessions will be held on Thursday and Friday as follows:
Thursday 11 December, 11.30am – 2pm, Eaglehawk Town Hall, 2A Peg Leg Road, Eaglehawk
Thursday 11 December, 3pm – 7.30pm, Bendigo Station, Railway Place, Bendigo
Friday 12 December, 9am – midday, Lansell Square, 267 High St, Kangaroo Flat
The community consultation period ends on December 22.
To find out more visit, http://ptv.vic.gov.au/projects/buses/proposed-bus-network-for-bendigo/
