New bus network proposed for Botany, Howick and Manukau

The Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) is asking current and potential South Auckland bus users to provide feedback on the Authority’s proposed new network for Botany/Howick local bus routes and Manukau crosstown bus routes.

A booklet outlining the proposed changes will be included with the next edition of Manukau Matters and will be delivered to letterboxes across Manukau in the last week of August. The booklet will also be available from Manukau libraries.

ARTA’s General Manager Customer Services, Mark Lambert says, “The proposed changes form a part of a much larger review by ARTA of bus services across the Auckland region to make the bus network easier to understand and use.”

The proposed new bus network will:

· Link all parts of Pakuranga, Farm Cove, Bucklands Beach, Highland Park and Howick with Botany Town Centre

· Provide a more direct link from Bucklands Beach, Howick and Botany to Manukau City Centre

· Provide Highbrook with its first bus service

· Provide better links between the Manukau Institute of Technology and the rail network at Middlemore station

· Simplify crosstown bus routes through East Tamaki

· Provide a connection to Sylvia Park from east of the Tamaki River.

“Changes are proposed to bus routes 56, 56a, 60, 61, 64, 65, 66, 363, 364, 374, 375, 443, 444, 562, 563, 564, 565, 567, 568 and 569.

“The changes are designed to simplify the whole network, while increasing directness and frequency of key routes.”

Mr Lambert says, “This consultation does not affect bus services to and from central Auckland (routes 50 to 55, and 68/680 or 681). ARTA consulted separately on proposed changes to route 68 earlier this year, and the new bus routes 680 and 681 will replace route 68 from 31 August 2008.”

Manukau residents who want to have their say about the proposed changes to Botany/Howick local bus routes and Manukau crosstown bus routes should provide their feedback by 19 September 2008. The changes are expected to be implemented later this year.

For more information about the proposed change and about bus services in the Botany, Howick and Manukau areas call MAXX on (09) 366 6400 or visit www.maxx.co.nz