ANYTHING that is going to boost the safety of the shire’s residents is a welcomed moved.
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That includes a new shelter and 81 upgrades, including connecting paths, tactile indicators and new signage, which Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson insists will “make people’s public transport journey safer, easier and more comfortable”.
The upgrades, expected to be rolled out within the next six months, are on the back of locals increasingly using public transport.
Cynics might question why the grants will be used to improve facilities rather than increase public transport services to keep up with rising demand.
But it’s a wise and welcomed move that the state government and TRC have recognised the need to prioritse safety above everything else.
In TRC Traffic Committee chair Phil Betts’ words, “community safety is paramount”. He couldn’t be more right.
Both Mr Anderson and Cr Betts have assured residents they are working closely alongside bus companies and various community groups to ascertain the highest priority.
From those discussions, Mr Anderson reported there were more kids going to school “so these (upgrades) provide safe areas for them to get on those buses”.
Child safety – especially while waiting for a bus – has been a longstanding issue across the region.
It’s pleasing to see that decision makers are starting to prioritise child safety.
These works – which are part of more than $2.8 million awarded across regional NSW – will go a long way to safeguarding our public transport users.
With the rapid growth of the Tamworth shire, particularly around Calala, it’s more important than ever to prioritise community safety.
This is a giant step in the right direction.