State Member for Wallsend, Ms Sonia Hornery MP, has called on the new private operator of the Newcastle Transport network to not forget those on the outskirts of the Wallsend electorate.
The new operator is due to commence operating bus and ferry services from July 1, and will this week hold community forums in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.
Local residents are keen to have input into the services provided by the new transport operator as public transport is limited around the outskirts of the Wallsend electorate.
Despite being some of the biggest users of public transport in the Hunter, the new provider will not be holding a forum in the western suburbs.
Quotes attributable to Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery
“Once again the western suburbs are being ignored, despite being some of the biggest users of public transport in the Hunter.”
“Newcastle Transport have guaranteed better and more frequent transport options and will deliver a solution tailored to what locals want. Well how will they deliver what locals want if they don’t give them an opportunity to have a say.”
“They need to understand that the majority of people who use public transport in the Hunter don’t live on Hunter Street or in the CBD of Newcastle.”
“These sessions are supposed to provide an overview of Newcastle Transport, the benefits of integrated transport and proposed service improvements, but the residents of Maryland and Fletcher are unable to get a bus service directly to the CBD of Newcastle to attend the forum.”
“The new operator has yet to provide any information and assurances that come July 1, things will remain the same.”
“If Newcastle Transport is genuinely interested in what locals want they will schedule a forum for the people of the Wallsend electorate to have their say.”