Commuters who have constant grievances with the local bus services in Tamworth will now have the ear of the NSW Government as community consultation to improve public transport in the area commences today. 

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the consultation marked the next phase of the NSW Government’s 16 Regional Cities program to deliver better public transport outcomes across the regions.

“We want to ensure our public transport network meets the specific needs of this community, with more reliable services and better connections to the places people want to visit and at the times they want to travel,” Mr Anderson said.

“This is the Tamworth community’s chance to help Transport for NSW identify gaps and opportunities around how bus services operate, and plan service improvements to better meet people’s needs.”

“Feedback from customers will inform any improvements to the local Tamworth network, delivering on our vision to help make public transport a first-choice option for people living in the regions.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said he encouraged people in the community to have their say because ultimately understanding what commuters want was the only way the NSW Government could deliver a superior public transport system.

“We want to hear from everyone. We want to hear from those who use buses regularly but, just as importantly, we want to hear from those who don’t so we can understand what drivers could potentially entice more commuters to use public transport,” Mr Farraway said.

“Improvements could include changes to existing journeys in Tamworth, new trip possibilities and offer better connectivity to key destinations, such as hospitals, TAFE and university.”

“The NSW Government continues to invest in regional communities and keep locals connected through programs that make getting from A to B easier and more efficient, now and into the future

The 16 Regional Cities consultation period for Tamworth runs from Monday 1 August until Friday 9 September. Feedback can be provided by:

•           visiting yoursay.transport.nsw.gov.au/betterbusnetworktamworth

•           calling 1800 717 528 · emailing RegionalCitiesProgram@transport.nsw.gov.au

•           writing to Transport for NSW, 16 Regional Cities Program – Tamworth, PO Box K659, HAYMARKET NSW 1240 For more information, visit: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/programs/16-regional-cities-services-improvement-program.