New interchange connects bus travellers

BUSES will no longer queue up on Lydiard Street north, following the official opening of the Ballarat Station bus interchange.

Located between the north platform and multi-level carpark, the $17 million accessible interchange has been funded by the State Government, and includes 12 bus parks, shade, and seating.

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison said the project is a “game changer,” and its completion is not just good news for bus commuters.

“Many residents living in Soldiers Hill have had buses parked out the front of their house for a long time now, so they will certainly welcome this decision,” she said.

“It links up with the station, providing a fantastic interchange between not only bus services, but train services… to Melbourne and the region.

“We really welcome this upgrade, which is not only for today. It’s been future-proofed so as the Ballarat community grows, this interchange will be able to take in more services for our community.”

Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle said the infrastructure is crucial to ensure the many residents who rely on the bus service can get around the city.

“They have one spot to come to. They’ve got cover, connection, it’s fully accessible… and it’s a safe place to make the connections to get where they need to go in Ballarat,” she said.

“Most of us can remember what it was like beforehand, walking from the train station to our cars. There was no lighting and it didn’t feel safe.

“What’s extraordinary about the development of this whole area now is that people have a well-lit, safe space to use public transport, and that’s incredible.”

Planning to make the interchange as accessible as possible, the State has put an additional 73 bus services on the city’s seven-day timetable.

The Sebastopol route, for example, will now run every 30 minutes, rather than hourly.

“There’s been a real shift in community mindset about public transport, and with the redevelopment of The Goods Shed in the station precinct, the interchange is perfect,” Ms Addison said.

“Come down, have a few drinks, catch up with some friends, and catch the bus home. It’s a really great asset.”

Regional Development Victoria Grampians region director Michael Bailey said the interchange has been delivered just in time for a summer of events.

“We have the cycling Nationals, cricket, and then will roll into the football season, so we expect and encourage everyone to participate in the bus and public transport,” he said.

“Numbers on buses…across COVID have remained pretty strong, and we expect that to grow.”