Bus users asked to help Council with new bus shelter project
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Published on 08 April 2021
The condition and location of bus stops in the Byron Shire is the focus of a new project which aims to make sure they comply with legislation relating to disability standards.
There are more than 40 formal bus shelters in the shire and at least 60 other stops without shelters, ranging in condition.
“Council’s bus stops need to meet the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport (DSAPT) legislation,” Katie Hughes, Council’s project engineer, said.
The NSW/AUST Government has given Councils until 31 December 2022 to ensure its bus stops comply with the DSAPT.
“From 2 April Council will be asking bus operators and school communities to identify issues with bus stops along with how many people are using these stops on a daily and weekly basis,” Ms Hughes said.
“While school students make up the majority of bus users in the Byron Shire, we are also hoping to hear from other people who use buses and bus shelters because their feedback is also very important,” she said.
“Council is very aware about the need for improved public transport in the Shire but this project is a separate issue.
“Bus shelters need to protect passengers from rain, sun, wind and whatever else the weather throws up in the Byron Shire.
“We are hoping people will take the time to look at the information on Your Say Byron Shire and provide specific details about which bus stops they use and how often, and also indicate where there are any unused shelters.” Ms Hughes said.
“This project focuses on formal Council bus shelters and stops but we acknowledge there are many informal stops that are arranged between bus companies and users and gathering information about these is important as well,” she said.
People can provide feedback on bus shelters at Your Say Byron Shire until 7 May 2021.
Staff will then assess the information and develop a bus stop upgrade program and timetable.
For media enquiries contact Annie Lewis, Media and Communications Coordinator, on 6626 7320.