New Network for Public Transport (South Auckland)

Auckland Transport would like to advise that final decisions have been made on the South Auckland bus routes and frequencies, subject to their affordability, to be determined by the tendering of bus services and appointment of bus operators.

The Consultation Summary and Decisions report and updated maps are available for viewing on our website, in Service Centres, in Local Board Offices, and in the Public Libraries listed at the end of this newsletter from Wednesday 11 December.

Summary of Feedback and Changes

Over 1,100 submissions were received, as well as 3 petitions. More than half of the official submissions supported or strongly supported the changes proposed. Around 22 per cent were neutral and 21 per cent opposed the proposals.

In conjunction with analysing the submissions a team of public transport planners drove the routes in buses to clarify issues raised. This directly resulted in changes being made to the proposed routes, and some submitters’ suggestions being adopted.

The feedback has resulted in several changes to the proposed bus network. In short, Auckland Transport originally proposed 28 bus routes within the South Auckland area and are proposing to make changes to 20 of those routes. In addition we are creating 1 new route in Papakura, retaining a peak-only service from Otahuhu to the CBD along the Great South Road and retaining a limited express bus service from Papakura to the CBD. As a result of consultation feedback there are now 30 routes under the final South Auckland New Network.

As is the case whenever bus services are changed, we are aware that in making these decisions, some existing customers may be disadvantaged. If you have any questions or require any further information, please go to the website or contact Auckland Transport on (09) 366 6400.

South Auckland transport system
Proposed Closure of Te Mahia and Westfield Stations
Decisions have not yet been made on the proposed closures of Te Mahia and Westfield Stations. Detailed reports will be developed separately to address those proposals, and decisions are not included in the consultation report.

Other Feedback
What did AT do with feedback that was not directly related to the New Network?

Feedback relating to fares and ticketing, customer services, interchanges, train stations, accessibility, bus stops, shelters, lighting etc, has been forwarded to the relevant Auckland Transport team for their review, action, or inclusion within their work programmes.

Feedback on other Auckland areas not included within this consultation (such as Pukekohe, Waiuku and Sylvia Park) will be considered when those areas are reviewed.

Implementation
Implementation is currently planned for mid-2015 subject to the tendering of bus services, and completion of the Otahuhu Bus-Train Interchange and other important infrastructure.
ends

© Scoop Media