Residents are being reminded that submissions on the NSW Government’s Draft Central Coast Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan close on Sunday, July 27.
So far, more than 500 locals have had their say, with over 300 survey responses, seven submissions, almost 100 quick poll answers and over 100 interactive pin drops, with residents offering localised feedback on different aspects of the plan.
The draft plan outlines a vision for a vibrant and connected Central Coast served by a high-quality transport system that enables people to safely get where they need to go by walking, riding, catching public transport or using their private vehicle throughout the geographically diverse region.
About 45 short and medium-term initiatives have been identified to help address challenges faced by the region and improve transport options for the region’s residents, workers and visitors between now and 2041.
The initiatives will support projected population growth and enable improved access to employment areas, health and education precincts and tourism, while maintaining a connection to the highly desirable and valued natural attractions of the area.
They include: more services to more places; better utilisation of existing infrastructure including road and rail; improved public transport services for smaller communities and their ageing populations; and targeted upgrades to improve connections between homes and jobs, education, healthcare services and entertainment precincts.
The Central Coast Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan is one of nine SRITPs being developed as part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing transport infrastructure and services across regional parts of the state.
Building on previous strategic plans, the SRITPs focus on delivering integrated solutions that will drive economic growth, improve connectivity and enhance the quality of life.
Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said the plan is a blueprint for change.
“Transport connections play a crucial role in providing access to essential services such as healthcare, education, employment, social services and significant cultural locations, as well as goods that are critical for consumers, businesses and supply chains,” he said.
“By improving connectivity and ensuring transport is accessible, inclusive, reliable and safe within the fast-growing Central Coast, we are working to help improve the wellbeing of our communities and ensuring an even brighter future for our region.”
The draft plan and related documents are available at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/central-coast with submissions invited until midnight on July 27 via that page or by emailing engage.sritps@transport.nsw.gov.au.
I maintain that the Rapid Bus routes on page 101 will be one of the best catalysts for change on the Central Coast in the last decade. Buses aren’t welfare for the poor, they’re an essential piece of transportation for everybody on the Central Coast – it’s high time that the buses started acting like it