Metro is calling on Launceston residents to provide feedback to Metro’s first network review of the city’s general routes and school services since 2007.
Metro Chief Executive Officer Stuart Wiggins said the overall aim was to encourage a patronage increase by making public transport in Launceston faster, smarter and easier.
“Metro recognises that our network is a complex one that may no longer reflect the travel patterns or needs of Launceston residents,” he said.
“We already know, thanks to independent research, that Metro customers in Launceston want services that are easier to understand, run more frequently and get people to their destination quicker.
“With this in mind, Metro has designed a network that aims to achieves these outcomes.”
Mr Wiggins said the ultimate success of the Launceston network review depended on feedback received from the Launceston community.
“We encourage everyone to have a say as feedback will be carefully considered before any final planning of routes and timetables is undertaken,” he said.
Key features of the proposed network include:
• A simplified network (37 routes and variations reduced to 21).
• Buses from more areas servicing Launceston General Hospital (LGH) including a new high frequency Turn Up and GO corridor.
• A new cross-city route linking the University of Tasmania with Kings Meadows shops, Mowbray shops, Invermay, Inveresk, City, LGH and Six Ways.
• More consistent departure times that will be easier to remember.
• Routes will be scheduled, where possible, to minimise waiting times.
“We want to reassure the public this is not a cost reduction exercise but rather about making sure Metro maximises its available resources in order to attract increased patronage,” Mr Wiggins said.
The proposed new network will offer the same total amount of services while continuing to service all suburbs currently included in the Launceston network.
Metro forecast that the improved network could be implemented in mid 2017.
Mr Wiggins said timetables were not included in this consultation phase as they could not be developed until the network design was finalised.
Further information is available at metrotas.com.au, the Metro hotline on 13 22 01 or email correspondence@metrotas.com.au.
Displays that provide further information, and will feature Metro representatives to talk to, will also be available as follows:
• St John St interchange (12.30pm to 4pm, 18 October and 7am to 11am, 8 November).
• Mowbray Marketplace (10am to 2pm, 21 October and 10am to 2pm, 1 November).
• Meadow Mews (10am to 2pm, 25 October and 10am to 2pm, 11 November).
• Launceston Plaza (Kmart) (10am to 2pm, 27 October and 10am to 2pm, 4 November).
• Prospect Vale Marketplace (10am to 2pm, 28 October and 10am to 2pm, 10 November).
Feedback closes on 11 November 2016.
Released by:
Nicolas Turner
Tel: 0418 538 865