The Hunter is set to benefit from 506 extra weekly bus services being rolled out throughout the region from the weekend.
To be operated by Hunter Valley Buses, one of the new routes – 259 – connects Minmi, Maryland, Wallsend, Elermore Vale, Cardiff and Glendale and provides links to Cardiff Station.
At least 175 trips will be provided per week.
Another service, 264, unites Minmi, West Wallsend, Holmesville, Cameron Park, Edgeworth, Glendale, Cardiff, Garden Suburb and Kotara.
It offers links to Cardiff Station, too.
Route 136, Raymond Terrace to Stockton via Medowie, will change to better connect with the latest development in Fern Bay.
There’ll be more frequent services throughout the week, as well, including earlier and later accessibility on Saturdays and Sundays and improved connections with Stockton ferry.
Route 140, Newcastle Interchange to Raymond Terrace, also delivers additional availability, including weekends.
Meanwhile, service 141 will be altered to better connect new development to the north-east of Raymond Terrace, while 262 and 263 – to and from Cameron Park – is expected to change due to traffic intersections, with no reduction in the number of buses.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said the improvements were designed to meet demand in growing areas of the Hunter.
“These new services and route changes will help make daily life easier for local residents,” the Maitland state MP explained.
“It’ll give them the flexibility to get to work, shops, medical appointments and to stay connected with family and friends.
“As part of these 506 new services, there will be two brand new routes, alterations that better serve growth areas and more buses running on weekends and at night.
“We know good quality public transport is important for the wellbeing of people and communities.
“So, these services are a win not only for Hunter locals but visitors and tourists as well.
“They have been established off the back of strong advocacy from hard-working Hunter MPs – Sonia Hornery (Wallsend), Clayton Barr (Cessnock), Jodie Harrison (Charlestown), Kate Washington (Port Stephens), Tim Crakanthorp (Newcastle) and Greg Piper (Lake Macquarie).”
Minister for the Hunter Tim Crakanthorp welcomed the modifications.
“As our region grows, public transport connections are vital to ensure access to services and recreation,” he said.
“I’m thrilled to see these services start and look forward to working further with community to continue to improve our bus network.”
Customers can visit transportnsw.info to plan their trips.
For more news stories:
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.