Shellharbour MP and Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Transport and Roads Anna Watson, Keira MP and Minister for Illawarra and South Coast Ryan Park, Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison and Wollongong MP and Planning Minister Paul Scully.
Time is running out for the community to have their say on the plan pitched as the blueprint for the future of roads and travel in the region, with pop-up sessions giving residents a final chance to help shape it.
Transport for NSW is seeking feedback from the community on the Draft Illawarra Shoalhaven Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan before the public exhibition finishes on Monday 9 February.
The extensive strategy is the framework which will guide government investment and decision-making priorities across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven over the next two decades with a goal to create accessible, reliable and affordable options to better connect the region.
“Building on previous strategic plans, the plans focus on delivering integrated, long-term solutions that will drive economic growth, improve connectivity and enhance the quality of life for residents in each region,” Transport for NSW Executive Director, Partnerships and Integration South Cassandra Ffrench said.
“If you live, work or regularly visit the Illawarra and Shoalhaven region, we want to know which actions matter most to you and what else should be considered.”
The document describes dozens of actions and initiatives to be addressed, and sets out practical steps for the region, which is set to grow by an estimated 150,000 people over the next 20 years.
But insight from those who use the roads and transport network and have experienced challenges first-hand is crucial to ensure nothing is missed.
“Feedback received during consultation will help guide the priorities and actions in the final plan, and provide valuable insights into local transport needs,” Ms Ffrench said.
“By identifying actions the government can take to improve transport options in line with future population growth and projected demographic changes, the draft plan presents potential short, medium and long-term progress opportunities for the community to consider.”
Ms Ffrench said there had already been strong feedback online, with community members able to take a survey, upload a submission, or identify areas on an interactive map to convey their thoughts.
“Respondents have already highlighted the importance of safe travel for all and better access to transport services as key objectives,” she said.
“Top priorities and themes emerging from feedback include calls for more frequent and reliable public transport services, safer roads, improved congestion on key routes and better active transport connectivity.”
Transport for New South Wales is hosting in-person pop-up sessions to discuss the plan with residents.
Sessions will be held at Kiama Farmers Market on Wednesday 21 January from 3 to 6 pm, Wollongong Crown Street Markets on Friday 23 January from 8 am to 3 pm, Shell Cove’s Markets at the Marina on Sunday 25 January from 10 am to 3 pm, HomeCo Vincentia on Thursday 29 January from 1 to 5 pm and at Nowra Show on Saturday 7 February from 9 am to 5 pm.
To find out more or have your say online, visit the NSW Government Have Your Say website.
Submissions are open until Monday 9 February.
