State Government public transport spending lacking in vision

Submitted by Louise Sales on Thu, 19/05/2011 - 16:54

The WA Greens spokesperson on transport Lynn MacLaren MLC said the State Budget is disappointing for its lack of vision in public transport infrastructure, but does offer significantly more buses and train carriages. Ms MacLaren also welcomed the absence of funding for the proposed Roe 8 highway.

“Quietly dropping funds for the hugely unpopular Roe 8 extension through the Beeliar wetlands is just common sense. There is simply no justification for the expense,” Ms MacLaren said.

“The additional investment in public transport announced in today’s State budget is a step in the right direction. However a major increase in the level of public transport funding will be necessary in order to tempt Perth’s commuters out of their cars and ease the pressure on both Perth’s roads and the environment,” Ms MacLaren said.

“The investment in rail cars and buses is significant and important – but the lack of investment in light rail will make it all the more difficult to meet the goals of Directions 2031,” Ms MacLaren added.

Ms MacLaren has welcomed the 20 per cent increase in bus services announced in the budget.

“Residents in the outer suburbs are growing more dependent on regular, frequent bus services as the costs of parking and petrol rise, Ms MacLaren said.

“It’s hardly surprisingly that the Government’s expenditure on public transport is lacking in vision since it has yet to deliver its long awaited Public Transport Master Plan,” Ms MacLaren concluded.