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Hobart service changes

Hobart network review shows public support for more linear high frequency bus services

Public feedback on Metro Tasmania’s Hobart Network Review shows clear support for simplified bus services and more direct routes to improve travel times.

Three-hundred-and-sixty-nine people made submissions regarding the state owned bus operators plan to create more direct routes and reallocate buses to create more high frequency on routes where patronage and demand for services is high.

“We thank those who submitted written or online surveys, as well as the many stakeholders including Anglicare, COTA Tasmania and relevant councils, who were engaged throughout the consultation process,” a Metro Tasmania spokesperson says.

The proposal to reform the network was backed by a majority, with 74.5 per cent supporting, neutral to, or not affected by the proposal, Metro Tasmania revealed this week.

Results indicated clear support for simplified bus services (57.2 per cent) and more direct routes to improve travel time (61.8 per cent).

Changes to the network include the introduction of high frequency ‘turn up and go’ services between Shoreline and Hobart between 7am and 7pm, running every 10 minutes Monday to Friday and every 20 to 30 minutes on weekends.

Other measures include improved services to Brighton and Old Beach and the reestablishment of direct services to the University of Tasmania from the eastern shore and northern suburbs.

“All feedback received was very helpful in directing our resources to where they can be best utilised.

“With this proposal we aim to deliver a simpler, faster and more frequent bus services to our customers.”

The organisation is set to launch a public education campaign in the lead up to the changes to ensure the community is well informed of the changes, and the exact timing of the timetable changes is yet to be determined.

New timetables associated with the changes will be made available well in advance, to allow passengers ample time to adjust.

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