Over the duration of this year the State Government is planning to undertake a series of bus service reviews and as such the Eastern Transport Commission will be commissioning work to determine the reasons deterring people from using public transport.

Some of these reasons, such as infrequent services, poor operating spans and confusing bus routes, are well-known within the eastern suburbs, but comprehensive research will assist the Eastern Transport Coalition’s efforts in lobbying for public transport improvements.

Cr Alex Makin said frequency and a lack of weekend and evening services were major problems in Maroondah.

Even though there have been some recent changes, the frequency and operating span of bus services on popular routes such as the 670 along Maroondah Highway still need further improvements. In addition, there is still a lack of evening services particularly on weekends.

The ETC was hopeful of a successful outcome. “It is the first time in four decades bus services have been seriously looked at.”

The review into bus routes is definitely welcome and it is hoped that the State Govenrment will take this opportunity to improve services within Maroondah and beyond. In particular there is a need for a bus service along Mount Dandenong Road, connecting Ringwood with Karralyka, Maroondah Hospital and Croydon along a direct route. Furthermore services within the north of Maroondah, such as Warranwood, are also lacking.

The State Government’s review into Maroondah’s bus services is expected to begin in the latter part of this year.