Dubbo: New bus routes, residents told they can’t park outside homes

Residents are hitting out as a shock decision by the NSW Government means they will soon be barred from parking outside their own homes. See why here.

The placement of additional bus routes are yet to be decided in Dubbo. ​

Dubbo residents are outraged over a snap decision by the NSW Government for a series of new bus routes – which will see restriction imposed on parking outside their own homes.

Transport for NSW is rolling out addition buses to as part of the Regional Cities Services Improvement Program to “improve” bus services throughout regional NSW.

However, Dubbo locals received letters over the past two months telling them “not to park cars” in front of their homes anymore, as it will interfere with soon-to-be determined bus stop locations.

Bus services will be expanded in Dubbo. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Bianca De Marchi

Dubbo resident Leonie Derrick received a letter from Transport for NSW on April 28 revealing a new bus stop will be built in front of her home.

“They said I have no choice and have to take it up with local council,” Ms Derrick said.

“I contacted a couple of people on the street who were also talking about it, and they had no idea of a survey or any consultation.”

A Transport for NSW spokesman said Dubbo will receive additional bus routes later this year, which will “improve community access to safe, affordable and reliable public transport”.

“The goal is to operate at times that better suit the needs of the community to access essential services, attend medical appointments, visit friends and relatives, attend work, educational facilities and enjoy recreational activities,” the Transport for NSW spokesman said.

A map of 16 Regional Cities Services Improvement Program.

The spokesman said consultation took place in March and April last year, receiving up to 100 submissions, and is still taking place with residents.

“Transport for NSW is engaging with members of the community, and impacted property owners and tenants, Dubbo Regional Council and Dubbo Buslines, about the proposed changes to bus stop and bus zone locations, including the addition of new locations where required,” the spokesman said.

“These proposed additions and modifications are important to the service upgrade to allow bus users to access buses safely and conveniently.

Dubbo mayor Mathew Dickerson. Picture: Ryan Young

“Vehicles will not be able to stop or be parked within 20m of the approach of a bus stop or within 10m of the exit of a bus stop, or within any designated bus zone.”

Dubbo Regional Council mayor Mathew Dickerson said council has had “no say” in where the bus stops will go.

“We don’t control the state government, the state government controls us,” he said.