REDLAND City Council has launched a trial holiday bus service as part of helping people move about easier and safer.
The service will complement Translink services between Redland Bay marina and Capalaba during the holiday period from Friday December 23 to Sunday January 22.
Mayor Karen Williams said the service was designed to meet a need for better direct access for residents to key locations across the city.
“We believe there is a gap in the current Translink services between Redland Bay Marina and Capalaba, especially over Christmas and New Year, so have decided to step in and ensure residents can more easily connect with the major shopping centres and medical and commercial precincts, as well as other holiday activities,’’ Cr Williams said.
“Services such as these highlight how council can help residents get around the Redlands more easily and economically, particularly during holidays, without the need for starting up their cars.
“Council is continually looking to boost connectivity in our diverse city, with a transport and connectivity strategy now being developed to benefit all Redlanders.
“Should this trial have widespread support, we will look to offer more in the future where needs are identified.
“Trials such as this will provide invaluable data that will then feed into our transport strategy, ensuring it meets demand and reflects the transport movements of our community.”
Cr Williams said the bus would travel from Weinam creek to Victoria Point Bus Interchange Shopping precinct, the Redland Hospital, Cleveland Train Station, Alexandra Hills Shopping Centre and the Capalaba Bus interchange shopping precinct.
“The service is a free trial and will run approximately every 90 minutes from the ferry terminal starting at 8am and returning from Capalaba approximately 5pm, in turn benefitting residents in many suburbs,” she said.
“We believe this service, which will be run by the local Blue Bus operators, could also help in reducing congestion and parking issues at key transport hubs like Weinam Creek and the Cleveland Train Station over the busy holiday period, providing additional benefits.”
Go to www.redland.qld.gov.au for more details including timetables and stop locations.
After the trial council will evaluate the success and decide whether a similar service could be operated on a permanent basis.
