Bus stop plans stalled
PLANS to redevelop Geelong’s much maligned Moorabool Street bus stop appear to have stalled and the state government is unable to say when new designs will be released.
A controversial proposal to transform the bus exchange into a tram-style super stop in the centre of Moorabool Street was first revealed by the Geelong Advertiser two years ago.
Other options canvassed included diverting buses via Brougham and Yarra streets between the Geelong station and the CBD, and leaving the Moorabool bus interchange as it is.
Construction of a tramstyle stop was supported by the Public Transport Users Association, which strongly objects to stops being split up and spread around the CBD.
In February last year, Geelong councillors rejected a proposed transport network operating plan for the CBD, claiming it failed to prioritise public transport.
City of Greater Geelong director of planning and economy Gareth Smith this week said the council continued to work with Public Transport Victoria, the Transport Department and VicRoads to determine the best options for public transport in central Geelong.
“The consolidation of bus stops is beneficial for transit passengers and helps improve accessibility,” he said.
“However, it can also have a negative impact on public space due to pavement overcrowding, particularly at peak times.
“We would support future state government investigations or trials of public transport options that address the needs of our community and visitors.”
Councillor Eddy Kontelj said development of a new transport network operating plan must be a priority and he supported moving the bus terminal from Moorabool Street.
“Put yourself in the shoes of retailers facing on to Moorabool Street — their shopfronts are hidden and it is not inviting,” he said.
PTUA spokesman Paul Westcott said suggestions to split up the city’s bus stops were “unacceptable”. He said the super-stop idea was a “reasonable option” that provided “safeguards and protection for passengers”.
“We’ve always said we are glad bus stops are in Moorabool Street, though our preferred option is for them to be more spread out through Ryrie and Malop streets to make it less crowded,” he said. “There needs to be some certainty as to what the plan is.”
Department of Transport Barwon south west regional director Vanessa Schernickau said the department was working with stakeholders. “We are always examining ways to improve the bus network in Geelong to deliver the best outcome that meets the community’s needs both now and longer term,” she said.
“The Department of Transport, together with DELWP and Regional Development Victoria, is continuing to work closely with City of Greater Geelong through the Revitalising Central Geelong Partnership to plan transport and land use needs in Central Geelong.”
Time frames for presenting plans are yet to be determined.