A review of the Metro Strategy has just begun with the aim of improving public transport in the Greater Christchurch area. Residents are encouraged to have their say about the future of public transport through a brochure which is being delivered to all mailboxes from this week.
Cr Carole Evans, Environment Canterbury public passenger transport committee chair, says that the existing Metro Strategy 2006-2012 is a joint document between the Regional Council and Christchurch City Council, but the new one expands to include the relevant parts of Selwyn and Waimakariri Districts.
“The current Metro Strategy has helped deliver a high quality public transport system, but it is time to plot our course for the future and support the growth of the wider metropolitan area,” she said.
“The strategy has led to a number of significant improvements including new and extended bus services, improvements to the Bus Exchange such as the new D lounge, bus priority helping reduce journey times on Papanui/Main North Road and bike racks on 12 routes.”
Metro services include the Diamond Harbour ferry and over 40 bus services throughout the city and to further destinations including Lincoln, Lyttelton, Rangiora, Kaiapoi, Burnham and Rolleston.
“The brochure arriving in your mailbox gives you the opportunity to have your say about how public transport services and supporting infrastructure like bus lanes and interchanges should be further improved in the future. It includes a freepost feedback form that’ll take just a few minutes to do or people can complete the forms online by visiting www.metroinfo.co.nz.”
“Community input is the key to creating a new strategy that will work for all residents of Greater Christchurch.
“As an added incentive to tell us what you think and as a thank you for taking the time, your response will put you in a draw to win a double movie pass or $20 Metrocard voucher,” Cr Evans said.
For information on Metro go to www.metroinfo.org.nz.
For further information: Environment Canterbury Public Passenger Transport Committee Chair Carole Evans, 027 240 3096.