Horizons calls for thoughts on future of public transport

Horizons Regional Council is asking for community feedback on its draft Regional Public Transport Plan 2022-32.

Regional passenger transport committee chairman Sam Ferguson said the plan sets the framework for how Horizons plans and delivers public transport services and infrastructure to the region over the next 10 years.

It includes an investigation into the opportunities and feasibility for services in Horowhenua and Tararua, and between Palmerston North and Linton, Longburn, Pohangina and Shannon.

Some of the proposed changes include urban bus service improvements in Palmerston North and Whanganui, and investigating better regional connections to the likes of the Wellington, Taranaki, Waikato and the Hawke’s Bay regions.

“Our vision is to provide an attractive, integrated and convenient public transport system that connects communities, enhances their wellbeing and environment, and becomes the preferred mode of transport in and between urban areas,” said Ferguson.

“One of our targets is to triple the patronage on our public transport services by 2032 and to do that we’re going to need more people using it. So, we want to know what would make someone switch from using a private vehicle to using a bus, or hopping on the Capital Connection rail service to get to Wellington instead of driving.

“I encourage people to go to haveyoursay.horizons.govt.nz, visit one of our office or service centres or call freephone 0508 800 800 to provide feedback before 12 May.”

Submitters will have the opportunity to speak at the hearings, due to be held on June 9-10.

Public consultation will run from April 11 to May 12.