It is very important that we make submisions to the New England-Northwest Regional Transport Plan being prepared by a team in Transport NSW for the next 20 years.
They are to release a draft plan for further stakeholder engagement early this year.
I have been encouraqging rail supporters to prepare and upload submisions. Succeeded in sending about 8 so far. Explaining personal experiences,hardships due to lack of regular transport is one way to articulate what is needed and why?
Some have commented on the need for a faster second train to Sydney. Others point out the need for train services to aeas like Guyra, Ben Lomond, Glen Innes ,Deepwater,Tenterfield and the border.
Yet others have commented on the need for regular coach services connecting towns to the north of Armidale up to Stanthorpe to access various services. High air fares and relying on air travel in place of ground transport is another dimension to comment on.
Those with knowledge about the freight aspect can comment on the need for rail freight to various ports can be another aspect to write.
Whether we can move forward without regular public transport including extension of train services during the next 20 years while neighbouring countries are building fast rail connecting countries is the key question. e.g., South East Asia. I believe even Indonesia and East Timor is building one with Chinese help.
Integration of various modes of transport is also one aspect to comment.
Further details and how to upload your submision/letter are available here
https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/new-england-and-north-west
Following is a Quote:
The Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plans (SRITP) for the New England North West is set to be delivered in early 2026, and we are focused on capturing the heart of what makes the New England North West unique, ensuring our transport infrastructure supports every resident's way of life.
Have Your Say
Before we draft the plans, your feedback is invaluable. Whether it is your daily journey, or the transport services you depend on, we want to hear from you. Through the below portal tell us about your experiences, your challenges, and what you believe can make the New England North West's transport network better.
You can also use the below interactive map of the New England North West to drop a pin to highlight a particular concern, insight or feedback.
If you like to know how a draft regional transpot plan look like have a look at the Hunter transport Plan. I think it is fairly comprehensive document covering many dimensions.
https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/hunter
If you need help in uploading your submision, I am happy to help . You can email me you submision/letter so I can upload it in your name.
Email: siri.gamage1951@gmail.com