Council to make changes to Valley road bus route

Changes to address concerns raised by residents about the number of bayhopper buses travelling along Valley Road in Mount Maunganui will be in place by Christmas according to the Chairman of the Regional Council's Public Transport Subcommittee.

Bay of Plenty Regional Councillor Doug Owens said while the Bay Hopper route 30 would be retained, routes 1 and 2 will be re-directed on to either Maunganui Road or Oceanbeach Road. In addition, some adjustments would be looked at to alleviate concerns around the size of bus using Valley Road.

A report on the matter was tabled by Garry Maloney, Acting Group Manager - Strategic Development at the sub-committee meeting yesterday. (SUBS: Wednesday 24 August)

Mr Owens said the changes meant the number of buses using Valley Road would reduce from 10 per hour to 2 per hour. The Regional Council will also investigate whether it is possible to operate using smaller buses on the remaining route 30.

"We are looking to get final details worked out as quickly as possible so the necessary changes can be made," Mr Owens said.

"We understand the difficulties our Valley Road residents have been experiencing and hope these changes will address their concerns."

Once finalised, the changes will be advertised.