Temporary Central City bus interchange opens 25 October

Christchurch bus users will enjoy a more streamlined service from the end of October with the opening of Central Station - a new temporary bus interchange.

Located on Lichfield Street, near Ballantynes, Central Station opens Tuesday, 25 October. It will replace the two bus termini currently operating on Hagley and Bealey avenues and significantly reduce travel times for passengers using Environment Canterbury’s Metro services. It will also restore some key bus routes that pass through the Central City.

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker says this is the first piece of infrastructure to be built in the Central City since February’s devastating aftershock and marks a significant first step in the regeneration of Christchurch.

“Central Station will bring people back into the Central City again, restoring some of its vibrancy and giving many people their first glimpse of how our city now looks.

“It will initially consist of basic platforms and shelters but progressively develop to include under-cover waiting rooms, ticketing, real-time bus information and amenities.”

Environment Canterbury Transport Commissioner Rex Williams says Central Station is an essential component in the rebuilding of Metro.

“We congratulate the Council for building this much-wanted interchange that will benefit the whole city as well as Metro users.

“A big thanks to Metro passengers for continuing to use buses despite current inconveniences. We’re looking forward to restoring excellent services and attracting people back on board.”

Mr Williams says improvements to bus routes, including new routes for work centres around Sheffield Crescent, Addington/Middleton and Hornby, will be rolled out at the end of October. Bus timetables, maps and routes are online at www.metroinfo.co.nz or passengers can call Metroinfo on 366 8855.

Central Station will be used for up to two years and does not replace longer term plans proposed for inner city transport facilities.

Central Station FAQs