Public transport is virtually non-existent in Byron Shire and the region as those looking for convenient services and fast connections will know. One of the dis-benefits of not having public transport is the impact on mobility-challenged people and their restricted access to life opportunities. Impacts that ultimately ripple out through families, households, businesses and communities.
A big step forward in public transport development would be to provide convenient links between largely isolated bus services as a way of making public transport more connected, convenient, and accessible. In particular between Brunswick Valley services and those in the south of the Shire.
We have a good rail line that can provide a rail shuttle, cycling, and walking link between Byron Bay and Mullumbimby. Connecting the town centres directly makes for convenient access and transfers without having to contribute to or confront road traffic. Council’s Multi Use Rail Corridor Study put the cost at $12.6 million dollars. By comparison, the proposed $78 million spend at the Ewingsdale interchange only induces further car dependence and does not deliver any public transport infrastructure or services.
Spending choices made about public transport need to take more account of all movement needs in the community. To do otherwise would be to solidify discriminatory barriers already faced by the young, aged, disabled, visitors, others unable to drive, and the many who want to make sustainable transport choices.
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