By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
Bus stops are under construction on Geelong’s new routes despite a promised review of controversial timetables.
Liberal South Barwon MP Andrew Katos said the timetable and route changes introduced in June had raised the ire of many public transport users.
Mr Katos and upper house MP Simon Ramsay hosted two forums earlier this year to hear concerns over the new routes.
Mr Katos raised the issue with Transport Minister Jacinta Allan in Parliament on behalf of a Highton couple this week.
“Mr and Mrs Patterson have previously written to the minister submitting concerns about recent changes to certain Geelong bus routes, in particular the replacement of the No. 16 bus.
“The minister responded to the Pattersons, advising that a review of the bus routes and associated services will be undertaken early in the New Year, six months after the introduction of the changes.
“However, permanent infrastructure is being installed along the new route 43, being the construction of concrete pads in readiness for bus shelters in Mt Pleasant Road, Highton, even though a review is taking place and this infrastructure may not be required.
“I ask the minister: is the review of bus routes in Highton genuine given the fact that new bus infrastructure is already being installed?”
Mr Katos told the Indy that spending money on new bus stops meant the review was a sham.
“It looks like they’ve already made up their mind despite the review,” Mr Katos said.
“Either that or it’s a waste of money if the review finds that the route should be changed.”
Ms Allan’s spokesperson said bus routes in the area were under review.
“The infrastructure being installed is required for passengers currently using route 43,” the spokesperson said.
“We’re improving local bus infrastructure now and will continue to talk to the community about how their local bus services can be improved in the future.
“As Mt Pleasant Road is the most direct route into the area and a major thoroughfare in Highton, it’s very unlikely that it would not be a route for local buses in the future.”
