Transport study back on the road after shutdown

Published on 23 June 2020

Health, wellbeing, jobs and education are only some of the issues to be considered in Corangamite Shire Council’s audit into transport services in the community.

Shire residents are invited to answer a survey that will help Council analyse frequency, accessibility, demand and capacity of existing community transport options, and identify gaps that need to be filled.

Project Officer Aged and Disability Holly Kercheval said the survey had been put on hold during the coronavirus shutdown because the findings would be skewed while people were staying at home in isolation.

“Now that the restrictions have eased a little and people are getting out again gradually, it’s a more rational time to find out what people need and where the service gaps are,” Ms Kercheval said.

“We’re keen to hear the community voice in a grass roots community consultation.

“There will be an area for people to share their ideas on how to close gaps in the services. We’ll collate that survey to identify issues that need attention.

Ms Kercheval said Council would work with transport providers with the aim of finding innovations that would benefit the community.

“Transport for the community has positive effects for social wellbeing, employment, education and getting to medical appointments. It’s important for everyday needs such as going shopping, and just being mobile.

“We’re concentrating on questions like: is it accessible for people with a disability? For parents, is it child friendly? Is it age friendly?”

The survey can be found here until Thursday 23 July.

Hard copies are available from the Civic Centre in Camperdown or by calling Council on 5593 7100.

The report is expected to be complete by December 2020.