The Sydney bus network will be revamped later this year to allow for the construction of light rail
An overhaul of Sydney’s bus network will come into effect later this year to help reduce congestion in the CBD and prepare for construction with the new light rail line.
The New South Wales Government has announced the route design of the new bus network which will operate from October 4.
Buses in the city centre will operate predominantly along new priority routes on Elizabeth Street, Castlereagh Street, Park Street, Druitt Street, Clarence Street and York Street, and will no longer operate on George Street.
Minister for transport and infrastructure Andrew Constance says the change is a key part of an integrated transport plan to keep pace with Sydney’s current and future transport needs.
“There will be disruption with George Street out of the equation, but the change will eventually be for the better when light rail is in action,” he says.
“I’m asking Sydney-siders to get on board and prepare for this significant change to ensure we keep the CBD moving and avoid chaos.
“The new bus network will be simpler, connect well with other transport and offer new services.”
The new bus network will see fewer buses fighting for road space in the core of the CBD with greater use of interchange options.
The network is comprised of four main components; reducing the number of bus stops in the CBD, establishing new cross-city routes, introducing expanded services to Barangaroo and Walsh Bay and early termination of six routes at train stations outside the CBD.
To help congestion, 330 of more than 700 buses that enter the core of the CBD will be removed, reducing bus congestion by 45 per cent.
Most customers will be able to use a service that takes them close to their existing stop, while others may have to walk a little longer than normal to reach their usual destination.
Approximately 10 per cent of bus commuters will need to interchange to complete their journey.
An extensive information campaign will be launched in advance of the changes and there will be staff on the ground at bus stops to make the transition as smooth as possible.