Council looks to extend life of Bus Exchange

13 June 2008

Short-term parking in Colombo Street from City Mall to Lichfield Street is earmarked for removal as the City Council looks to extend the bus lanes to extend the life of the Bus Exchange.

"A significant increase in Christchurch people choosing to travel by bus is placing pressure on the central city Bus Exchange," says Jane Parfitt, City Environment General Manager.

"In just six years, the number of bus passengers has increased by 47%, the Bus Exchange now being almost at capacity."

While land has been purchased in Lichfield Street to develop a new Transport Interchange, this facility will not be operational until 2011/12.

"To extend the life of the existing Bus Exchange, Council has to consider extending the bus stops on the east and west sides of Colombo Street, from City Mall to Lichfield Street.

"This will result in the removal of short-term parking in the area but is necessary to ensure the Bus Exchange continues to operate effectively until the new Transport Interchange is built."

Mrs Parfitt says at the same time, Council plans to build a new Transit Waiting Lounge at 690 Colombo Street to help ease footpath congestion and improve pedestrian flows in the area.

"This Transit Waiting Lounge will provide comfortable seating, be well-lit and provide passengers with a warm place to wait for their bus. It is also proposed to have Real Time Timetable information and bus arrivals and departures announced."

She says Council is meeting with one-on-one with affected retailers to discuss the plans.

"I acknowledge there will be some concerns and these will be addressed before Council makes a final decision in August."

Work is scheduled to begin late August for completion mid November.

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