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Northern Beaches residents are not holding their breath for a solution to Spit congestion from the Government’s working group, said Manly MP Mike Baird who is developing his own plan to be delivered this year.
“We’re doing work regardless of the working group. We’ve met with a huge number of stakeholders to explore all the options and I’m committed to releasing a plan this year,” Mr Baird said.
“The core of the solution must be an improved and integrated public transport network. More than 60,000 cars cross the Spit Bridge every morning, many carrying only one person, because Peninsula residents cannot rely on buses and ferries to get to work.
“One of our solutions is a central authority to integrate public transport in NSW, which we have put to the Government this week. It is nonsensical that the NSW Government has nine separate transport agencies, all operating in isolation.
“We have also been consulting with experts in public transport and infrastructure and a preliminary view is that a Bus Rapid Transit system could work well in this corridor. The route and feasibility now need to be investigated.
“While the Government’s working group has remained silent, we have had a number of residents share their suggestions for easing traffic congestion on the Spit.
“There have been many interesting ideas, some believe a tunnel is the only answer, others say they want to leave their car at home but at the moment public transport is not an alternative.
“We’re pleased there has been a $600,000 injection from the Government this month to resurface Spit road, but it’s a paltry amount considering it is one of the most clogged corridors in the country.
“There have been many years of empty promises from the State Government – a lot of working groups but no action. I look forward to delivering a holistic plan for public input this year.” MEDIA: Lisa Harrington – 0406 726 880
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