Speak up on transport strategy

NOOSA’S public transport could face an overhaul with the council calling on the community to help develop a strategy plan.
Noosa Council has put the word out to anyone who would like to have their say about ways to improve on the current public and private transport networks.
Planning and infrastructure director Martin Drydale said the plan would address issues that could potentially help to avoid traffic gridlock in the future.
“With pressures on Noosa residents’ lifestyle from an increasing population and car usage, together with millions of visitors to the region annually, there is an urgent need for a high performing and effective passenger transport system,” Mr Drydale said.
The Labor Party’s council hopeful Mark Denham said transport is an important issue that requires input from not only the council but the community and all levels of government in order to reach a solution.
“Solutions will require input locally and assistance from the State Government to achieve good traffic flows, particularly during busy school, work and holiday times,” Mr Denham said.
“Traffic and transport is a real concern for the here and now, requiring carefully considered planning and processes put into place by forward thinking people.”
Mr Denham said strategies would need to be discussed which include the improvement of public transport, the inclusion of a light rail system in the region and subsidised services to reduce reliance on motor vehicles.
The Noosa Transport Strategy will provide an opportunity for residents to help set the transport agenda in Noosa for the next 20 years and will also include an interim 10-year strategy and a five-year action plan.
The strategy aims to address issues with the existing passenger transport system plus possible ways to improve parking practices and walking and cycling infrastructure.
Anyone who wants to have a say in the development of the Noosa Transport Strategy can head over to the council’s website at www.noosa.qld.gov.au or post a letter to the council at PO Box 141, Tewantin, 4565.
The consultation period is open between Monday 11 January and Friday 29 January.