The NSW Government has released a blueprint for the future of transport in the Illawarra Shoalhaven, with more frequent bus services, safer and more resilient roads and rail, and better walking and cycling connections among more than 40 initiatives identified in the 20-year vision.
The Government said the final Illawarra Shoalhaven Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP) followed extensive consultation with the community, councils, industry and stakeholders.
“The Illawarra Shoalhaven is a much loved region and a great place to live, work and raise a family, but we know our transport network needs to keep pace as our communities grow,” said Minister for the Illawarra and South Coast and Member for Keira, Ryan Park.
“This plan gives us a clear long term vision for better connections across the region, whether people are travelling to work, getting to school, accessing health care or simply getting around their community.
“We have listened to locals about what matters to them, and this plan puts those priorities at the centre of how we plan for the Illawarra and South Coast over the next 20 years.”
Key directions for the Illawarra Shoalhaven transport system include:
- introducing rapid, frequent ‘core’ bus services and infrastructure
- improving safety and resilience on roads and rail
- improving rail infrastructure and services
- developing a connected network of cycling and pedestrian infrastructure
- responding to significant anticipated growth with network and service upgrades.
- three Transport Oriented Developments planned around North Wollongong, Corrimal and Dapto stations are expected to accommodate around 5,500 residents and 2,000 jobs, creating new opportunities to connect people with public transport, employment and essential services.
The Plan also identifies transport improvements to support the new Shellharbour Hospital, being delivered in partnership with Health Infrastructure.
The Shellharbour Road and Dunmore Road intersection will be upgraded to accommodate increased road use from the hospital and surrounding development, while bus service improvements will provide convenient public transport access to the hospital when it opens.
“This plan will work alongside the Illawarra Shoalhaven regional plan to guide the delivery of housing, jobs, services and transport together, building better communities for the Illawarra,” said Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully.
“As our region continues to grow, this plan will help make sure people have genuine choices about how they move around, with better public transport and stronger walking and cycling connections.”
More information on the Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plans across NSW, including the final Illawarra Shoalhaven SRITP, is available at www.transport.nsw.gov.au/sritp-illawarra-shoalhaven.
