Cessnock City Council is calling on the NSW Government to introduce two new public transport routes to provide a direct connection between the Cessnock and Greta/Branxton areas.
There are currently no direct public transport services between these two significant population centres in the Cessnock LGA, with public transport options limited to travel via Kurri Kurri and Maitland.
Diverting via Maitland results in commute times upwards of 1.5 hours to complete a 20-minute drive. The current public transport options also bypass major employment areas in the wine country completely.
Cessnock City Mayor Jay Suvaal is encouraging government and other stakeholders to closely examine options for additional public transport in the Cessnock LGA.
"The Cessnock LGA has been left out in the cold for too long when it comes to public transport and it is our disadvantaged communities that are paying the price, particularly our young people," said Clr Suvaal.
"Lack of access to transport options is a widespread barrier to employment. The problem is particularly acute in the Cessnock LGA, with data showing almost 50% of local registered jobseekers lacked a licence and transport.
"Supporting additional public transport connections through major employment areas, and connecting communities, is a no brainer and I call on governments at all levels to support direct bus routes between Cessnock and Branxton/Greta."
Cessnock City Council has developed a brochure outlining two proposed bus routes, and has written to key stakeholders including Transport for NSW, relevant Ministers and Members of Parliament, both at a State and Federal level.
The two new public transport routes proposed are:
- Cessnock to Greta/ Branxton via Wine Country Drive (both directions)
- Mount View Road, Cessnock to Greta/ Branxton via Oakey Creek Road, McDonalds Rd and Wine Country Drive (both directions)
The proposed routes will service 47 employing businesses in wine country alone, expanding opportunities for job seekers.
The brochure can be viewed here on Council's website.
