Report reinforces State Government’s position on Hobart passenger transport options
The Tasmania Government is committed to working cooperatively to improve passenger transport in Hobart by launching an independent report into transport options for Hobart.
University of Sydney Institute of Transport and Logistical Studies Professor John Stanley has undertaken an independent report into passenger transport options for the city.
Released by the Bus Industry Confederation (BIC), the report’s findings reinforce the government’s position on the proposed Hobart light rail service.
Minister for Infrastructure Rene Hidding says in a statement: “As I outlined during Budget Estimates, our view, supported by Infrastructure Tasmania, is that while light rail has some future potential, it is not presently viable and priority should be given to other, more immediate options to improve the existing bus and urban road network.
“We have committed to preserving the former rail freight corridor between Hobart and Granton for potential future use for passenger transport.
“For the present, however, Hobart’s future passenger transport needs will be addressed through a number of measures and improving the operational efficiency of our existing bus network along arterial roads is an obvious cost-effective step.”
Hidding says government will continue to work closely with Hobart and Glenorchy Councils to achieve better movement of buses on key feeder routes.
Local councils have a vital role to play in transport planning in Hobart and Tasmania, he says.