By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
ROAD maintenance is the most significant issue for the region’s motorists, according to an RACV survey.
The organisation asked local drivers for their opinions on pressing regional transport issues as part of its Regional Growing Pains project.
RACV public transport and mobility manager Thanuja Gunatillake said the quality of roads and the number of potholes was an emerging issue across regional Victoria.
“People are generally happy with train services but there was quite a bit of commentary about the lack of car parking at railway stations,” Ms Gunatillake said.
“There was a lot of criticism for insufficient bus services to cater to local needs and the frequency of buses was too low.
“Public transport users said services tended to focus on central Geelong but there’s a need for cross-suburban services.”
Ms Gunatillake said issues for commuters accessing Melbourne were also on the agenda, with the RACV supporting the completion of the complete East-West link.
“Geelong commuters have said clearly they want an alternative to the Westgate corridor.”
The RACV said its Regional Growing Pains project was a comprehensive investigation of the transport requirements in country Victoria.
“Geelong is one of Victoria’s 10 largest regional cities, positioning itself to play a greater role in housing a share of the State’s growing population.
“RACV is keen to put regional Victoria’s transport needs on the agenda and ensure that our regional centres such as Geelong and the Surf Coast continue to grow in a safe and sustainable way.
“Our Growing Pains report last year found that failure to invest in transport infrastructure in outer Melbourne resulted backlog of key projects and RACV wants to help avoid the same problems as regional Victoria grows.
“RACV wants to hear from residents about what problems they face and their suggested solutions.”
The project will form part of the RACV transport agenda leading into next year’s state election.
An online survey is available at racv.com.au/regionalsurvey.
