The Greens welcome lodgement of the development application for redeveloping the Bellerive ferry terminal. However, patronage of the popular ferry service is hindered by not joining up with Metro services on the Eastern Shore, and further availability services times.
While the concept drawings of the new terminal are impressive, they will be of no comfort to those who are still unable to easily access destinations beyond Bellerive. The Liberal Government and Metro should identify opportunities to increase uptake of the Derwent Ferry service to act on as a matter of priority to increase use of this public transport service.
There is no public transport link within a short walk of the ferry terminals, which makes it hard for commuters who don’t live close to the area to access the service. Linking ferries and bus services to and from places such as Rosny College, Eastlands, the Rosny bus interchange and Howrah would encourage more widespread usage.
Increasing the availability of ferry services to ensure they run daily as well as beyond peak hour will ensure the uptake of this vital linkage between both sides of the River.
The Liberal Government has a mixed record when it comes to delivering infrastructure on time and on budget. It’s vital they make other improvements to the Derwent Ferry Service to increase usage for all commuters.
I set a challenge to Minister Abetz and Metro: provide these connecting services from the Bellerive ferry terminal before the beginning of the school year so students and other commuters can reap the benefit.
