We've set out a vision for the future of Wollongong's city centre integrated transport network. To make sure we're on the right track, we're inviting our community to share their thoughts.
The draft City Centre Movement and Place (CCMP) Plan outlines how we want people to get around and what the city centre looks like in future. It aims to make sure roads, pathways, and transportation work together for a safe, sustainable, and accessible city.
There are eight top moves underlining the plan, with a focus on improving four modes of transport: walking, cycling, public transport and vehicles.
Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said the plan accounts for a growing city centre and considers the important role transport plays in ensuring it is liveable, responds to our growing city, and is attractive.
"The draft City Centre Movement and Place Plan has short to long-term actions to best use the city's space and improve people's travel experiences. In the short term, enhanced public transport services need to be developed," he said.
"One recommendation is to open up more laneways to activate a lively city, enjoyed on foot. We also want to create safe shared spaces and grow active transport to support everyday travel.
"As we want to foster a people-centered city, we're strategically planning to reduce car reliance. Our aim is to ensure that cars are used only when necessary and that it remains safe for all. This may mean managing speed limits or redirecting traffic flow. This is ambitious and we know a lot of factors play a role in this, like improving public transport.
"Public transport remains a key priority. We've found that 45 per cent of residents would use public transport if it was more efficient than driving. So, we'll continue to advocate for better services and work with government agencies for funding and improvements."
The draft plan has been informed by a suite of Council documents, community feedback, population and employment data, and other transport data. The NSW Movement and Place framework also informed its development.
Cr Bradbery said the community is passionate when it comes to transport and urged people to take their time reading through the plan as there is lots to unpack.
"We've seen a lot of community interest in our plan already, particularly around the possibility of introducing a tram to the city in the future. It's not a key focus of the plan, but simply one aspirational idea for connecting the train station to the beach via the city's spine. It also explores options for a space for efficient public transport and moving large volumes of people," he said.
"Before anything could proceed, we'd need to conduct thorough investigations to determine feasibility. This includes working closely with other levels of government to secure funding and seeking additional community input.
"It's important to have long term goals and ideas, but this document is about immediate opportunities as much as it is about steps that can be taken in the longer term.
"Let's keep these discussions going. From local residents to our city workers, I encourage people to check out the engagement and share your feedback. Together, we can create a vibrant, safe, and accessible city centre for all to explore."
Exhibition is now open until Sunday 18 August 2024.
Our Transport staff will also be available for a chat at our pop-up info stand on Thursday 1 August from 11am to 2pm. You find them at 93 Crown Street Wollongong, Ground Floor.
