Clear direction for public transport

The Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP) has been approved for adoption by Horizons Regional Council, addressing a variety of public transport issues across all parts of the Region.

Discussion traversed everything from support for the Capital Connection to investigating infrastructure and costs for zero emission bus services at a meeting of the Horizons Regional Passenger Transport Committee in Palmerston North on Tuesday 5 May. The discussion followed a month-long public consultation period on the RPTP during which 44 submissions were received.

Chair of the Passenger Transport Committee Rachel Keedwell said that revision of the Plan was carried out due to legislative requirements. However, it presented an exciting opportunity for transport in the Region.

“Revising the RPTP enabled us to take a good look at where we’re headed over the next 10 years in partnership with our community. As a result, we’ve been able to include some valuable additions that will really benefit public transport users into the future.

“Some of the enhancements include better linkages between Ashhurst and Palmerston North, allowing people to commute more easily. We’re looking to create a more integrated transport network, with bike racks progressively added to buses from 2016.

“We also plan to be proactive in our consideration of alternative transport solutions and Council staff will look to investigate the infrastructure and costs associated with zero emission vehicles.”

Further highlights identified in the Plan include: a Wanganui to to Palmerston North commuter bus, a bus between Levin and Waikanae, support for a Horowhenua ‘Day out in Town’ loop service, enhanced bus services to Feilding and increased engagement with elderly and transport disadvantaged.

The Committee also recommended a public transport unit be established between Palmerston North and south of Levin at the regional boundary, for the purposes of providing public transport options between Palmerston North and Wellington and that work be undertaken to ensure continuity of passenger transport services between Palmerston North and Wellington. However, retaining the Capital Connection remains a top priority.

Cr Keedwell said the Committee would like to thank everyone who took the time to share their thoughts.

“We received a really high calibre of submissions from a range of individuals, local councils, to local businesses, groups, and education providers. These views and concerns have been thoroughly deliberated on and we feel they are well reflected in the final plan,” she said.

The Plan will now be referred to Horizons Regional Council for adoption at the next full meeting on May 26. While it has been set for the next 10 years, it will be reviewed again in three years time.

The final RPTP will available to view via the passenger transport section of Horizons’ website once it becomes available next weekwww.horizons.govt.nz

ENDS

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