By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
NEW timetables will force many public transport users to change their Geelong travel patterns from next weekend.
Public Transport Victoria (PTV) will introduce the changes to coincide with the opening of Regional Rail Link on 21 June.
Public Transport Users Association Geelong (PTUA) convenor Paul Westcott said the new bus and train network was the biggest change to public transport in the city for 35 years.
“Some people might have to change their journey habits, they may have to change the shopping centre they normally access,” Mr Westcott said.
“Hopefully it won’t be too many and people may find the service is better once it settles down but inevitably there’ll be a variety of outcomes for different passengers.”
Mr Westcott cited a reduced frequency of Sunday and North Geelong services and problems with direct access to Deakin University’s Waurn Ponds campus as examples.
“PTUA is broadly supportive of the changes without necessarily supporting every alteration. The new network will be more frequent, more direct and make connections with other buses and trains.
“The proof of the pudding will be in the eating. PTV will monitor the new arrangements and within a year there might be some changes depending on the experience.”
A PTV spokesperson said refinements of the local bus network were “fantastic”.
“While the new timetable will mean some people may need to change the way they travel, overall it really offers more consistent and frequent train and bus services, giving customers more choices and a real alternative to driving.“
