B-Line bus plans could see major changes on Military Rd at Cremorne and Neutral Bay

MAJOR changes to Military Rd for the new rapid transit bus network between Mona Vale and the Sydney CBD will turn it into a “hostile environment” North Sydney Mayor Jilly Gibson has said.

Artist’s impression of the planned B-Line buses. Picture: Supplied

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SMALLER footpaths, a road closure and tree felling could be needed to make way for the new B-Line bus service between Mona Vale and the Sydney CBD.

The rapid transit bus network will ferry commuters from the northern beaches to the city via Military Rd.

North Sydney Council recently received a letter from the State Government outlining proposed changes to Neutral Bay and Cremorne.

The plans include a new bus stop in Cremorne, the closure of a section of Cabramatta Rd and road widening near Holt Ave.

Movable medians could also be installed on Military Rd while there are planned changes to parking and a ban on left-hand turns into Ben Boyd Rd north.

Turning left into Ben Boyd Rd at The Oaks Hotel could be banned. Picture: Supplied

The new B-Line service will mean more frequent and double decker buses running in a dedicated bus lane with nine updated stops including real-time passenger information.

“Roads and Maritime does not expect the proposal to result in a significant adverse impact on the environment,” the letter says.

Construction is expected to start in early 2017 and last until October.

There may be partial acquisition of private and council-owned land.

Council prepared a report in response to the letter and raised various concerns with the proposals.

“There may be issues with the closure and partial closure of roads ... reduced footpath widths and loss of mature trees,” the report says.

It pointed out there was a lack of detail about parking restrictions and numbers.

Artist’s impressions of the new B-Line new bus stop.

Premier Mike Baird making an announcement about the B-Line. Picture: Martin Lange

North Sydney Mayor Jilly Gibson believes the changes will make Military Rd a “hostile environment”.

“Our biggest fear is the villages of Neutral Bay and Cremorne will be devastated by 24 hour clearways,” she said.

“Clearways put commerce and communities in reverse.”

A Transport for NSW spokesman said the B-Line team is using all the feedback from council to create a Review of Environmental Factors.

Traffic on Military Rd at Neutral Bay.

“This will assess the proposed infrastructure improvements between Mosman and Neutral Bay and identify any impacts associated with the proposed works, including potential loss of vegetation and changes to parking,” he said.

Buses are planned to run every five minutes in the peak periods and every ten minutes outside of peak until 12.30am every day.

For more information on the new service visit b-line.transport.nsw.gov.au/

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