Community Forums demand better public transport

Monday, 24 February 2003 10:00

Over 100 representatives from leading public transport, environmental, health and social service advocacy groups attended the two forums and developed a range of public transport recommendations which will be presented to the major political parties.

TEC Director Mr Jeff Angel said, "Residents in Western and Southern Sydney are subjected to the worst air pollution in the region. At the same time they are denied access to effective public transport which would provide a solution to air pollution and transport chaos".

The forums were organised by the Total Environment Centre (TEC). Speakers from TEC, the NSW Council of Social Services (NCOSS), Sutherland Shire Environment Centre (SSEC), Western Sydney Community Forum (WSCF), Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (WSROC) and STEP Inc discussed environmental, health and social problems caused by lack of public transport.
High on the agenda was improving the frequency, reliability and accessibility of public transport, chronically lacking in the Western and Southern Sydney Regions.

The forums called for the development of a comprehensive public  transport network which should include major new investment in new rail lines, investigation of light rail, extension of concessions on Government buses to private services, and integrated fares and ticketing.
At the Sutherland forum yesterday, the Sutherland Shire Environment Centre launched its 'Peoples' Vision for Transport in the Southern Sector Region', a major report on the problems and solutions for public transport in the area.

"It's time to start thinking of transport issues in an integrated way." said Dr Miriam Verbeek, Chair of SSEC. "We should be thinking of the different ways people can move through areas. Road transport is not the only way and often not the best way. Public transport, pedestrian and cycle facilities are often better."

"It is clear that public transport will be a key state election issue. The public have a right to demand clean air and effective public transport. Urgent action is needed to bring forward major public transport initiatives and reduce emissions". Mr Angel said.