Next weekend, the Grand Prix weekend is one of the train network’s busiest. No wonder, as big public events are what public transport does best, and organisers quite rightly encourage people not to drive. Apart from efficiently moving crowds, it’s also a chance to show off the system to occasional users who (if they have a good experience) may decide to get out of their cars more regularly.
So whose idea was it to schedule infrastructure works on that weekend? It will mean closure of the Sydenham line, one of Melbourne’s busiest, resulting in buses replacing trains, including V/Line trains. For Metro passengers, they’re advising that “Journey times may be extended by up to 35 minutes” — and for V/Line, up to an extra hour.
It’s important to upgrade our railway network, but surely they could have chosen a better time?
Help our campaign for better public transport. Join the PTUA now. We rely entirely on member funding and enthusiastic volunteers to operate.
More about PT Problem Of The Day, including how you can contribute your photos.
- See also — Herald Sun: Fury over Grand Prix line closures; Age: Rail work to hit grand prix fans