Hutt Bus Review Attracts 1500 Submissions

The first review of bus services in the Hutt Valley in over a decade has so far attracted about 1500 submissions, says the Wellington Regional Council. There hve been a couple of focus groups gathered by the Wellington Regional Council specifically to get an understanding of the needs of residents in the Holborn & Manor drive areas. Alex Campbell from WRC says that the focus groups have provided valuable input and WRC is considering a range of options at the moment. While there will be more research undertaken before a decision is made on the level of services provided WRC will be working hard to try and cater for as many residents as possible.

The campaign, “Steer Us in your Direction” – promoted with radio ads, leaflets on buses and a household letterbox drop – ran for a month to June 14.

“We’re really pleased at the number of people who took the time to tell us their views about the public bus services. However, there’s still time to make a submission if you haven’t yet,” says Wellington Regional Council Passenger Transport committee chairman Chris Turver.

Comments have been received from residents of the Hutt Valley, Wainuiomata and Eastbourne. About 90% were from current bus users.

“In addition, we have had some comments from people who would use buses if the services met their needs more. This will help us plan how to attract more people onto the buses,” says Cr Turver.

A number of those who made submissions liked the existing bus services – public transport was seen as a valued community service.

Many people requested:

• Longer hours of operation of the buses,
• More frequent buses,
• Better connections with destinations in the Hutt Valley and beyond (e.g. Porirua),
• More convenient and integrated fare options particularly between bus and rail,
• More reliable connections between bus and rail,
• People also suggested possible locations of bus stops and shelters.

The feedback gathered will be analysed to prepare a set of proposals to improve the services for commuters. The public will get another chance to comment when we have a set of specific proposals later in the year. We hope, as far as possible, to be able to provide bus users with a service they want and will use – while encouraging others onto bus transport.

Comments may be made on the website www.wrc.govt.nz/timetables or phone Ridewell on 8017000. Any changes to the services will be introduced around April 2003. The Wellington Regional Council is responsible for the planning and funding of public transport services in the region.