Jacqui Scruby demands action on 190X bus chaos
Pittwater express bus services are at ‘crisis point’ and must be fixed, says Independent Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby. The MP has been ‘inundated with complaints’ following cuts in January to the 190x peak hour express service between Avalon and Wynyard, from 12 to nine morning services.
“I’m furious and commuters have every right to be furious,” she said.
‘Continuous cancellations mean that on some days only half operate,” Ms Scruby said.
Commuter Adam Radcliffe told PL that Avalon commuters relied on the express service. “But it’s cancelled, left, right, and centre.” Mr Radcliffe said the 190x was sometimes down from nine to six services, a total reduction of 50%, and his journey from Avalon to Wynyard could take up to 100 minutes rather than 70 to 75.
Mr Radcliffe said it could take 45 minutes to get from Avalon to Mona Vale via Keoride depending on the number of stops, on top of waiting for it. Driving to Mona Vale to get the B-Line also increased commuting time, ‘especially as the B-Line has a lot more stops than the 190x, which doesn’t stop until Mosman.’
The comments come as five Northern Beaches and North Shore MPs, including Ms Scruby, met new Transport Minister John Graham on 20 February to present concerns, and get clarity from the government on what was being done to remedy bus issues.
In a joint statement, the MPs said it was a ‘constructive meeting.’ “The minister listened to feedback about cancelled services, queueing, lack of reliability, and the stress it has caused for residents and businesses.
“We have asked for further detail to be provided on the causes of the current crisis, how TfNSW is working to remedy these issues, and sought greater communication for commuters on service disruptions and when they will be resolved.
“We are all united in our efforts to ensure reliable public transport services across our communities.”
Operator Keolis Downer said a number of B-Lines had ‘mechanical issues’ on 18 February and that driver shortages, students returning to school and more than 40 of their ‘bendy’ buses out for repair also contributed to delays. “We apologise to our passengers for the delays and longer wait times. We understand the frustration this causes and appreciate the community’s patience,” a Keolis Downer spokesperson said.