NSW Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance wants Newcastle to have a better integrated transport system and is inviting transport operators from around the world to submit ideas on how this can be done.
“Patronage on public transport in Newcastle has dropped and customers tell us service levels are not up to scratch. It’s clear the current approach to transport in Newcastle isn’t working so it’s time to think outside the box,” he said.
"Today we are asking global leaders to create Transport for Newcastle, connecting the city with one major operator to plan and run Newcastle Light Rail, buses, ferries and interchanges.”
The heavy rail line between Broadmeadow and Newcastle was closed late last year although it has reopened as far as Hamilton and the plan is to build a new interchange at Wickham for heavy rail and light rail with the light rail taking passengers through the CBD.
Constance said with light rail on the way, there is an opportunity to completely rethink the transport network in Newcastle to support jobs, growth, and urban renewal in the CBD.
“If we want Newcastle to reach its potential, we need to create a modern and connected system that links light rail with frequent and reliable buses, ferries and trains,” he said.
"In an Australian first, we've put out a call to the best transport operators around the world to tell us how they could partner with the city to deliver a modern network for the city. Today’s announcement means that rather than having multiple operators running ad hoc services with mis-matched timetables, services would be streamlined to a sole provider, Transport for Newcastle, focussed on customer service. This would be public transport run in Newcastle, for Novocastrians, not run from Sydney.”
He said the community demanded more locally based decisions about transport in Newcastle and any new operator would need to base themselves in Newcastle and work hand-in-hand with the community to design and run the network.
He added they would like to see existing jobs carried over to the new integrated operator and the Government would retain full control of fares.
“This is an exciting time for Newcastle and I’m looking forward to hearing from the best transport minds around the world on ideas that will help create new ways of travel in the State’s second city,” he said.
Artist's impression of new Wickham transport interchange courtesy of Transport for NSW.