Is it a bus? Is it a cycle lane? Help shape Nelson’s future transport network

What do you think about proposed new bus routes to Atawhai and the Airport? Or a single low fare for the entire region? How about low emission buses or investment priorities for our road network?

The Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) and Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP) are currently open for public submissions, and are one of the best ways to have your thoughts heard and included in our planning.

 
The plans detail the investment Council proposes to make to create a sustainable transport network throughout the Nelson Tasman region, alongside our neighbours in Tasman and Marlborough. They also outline how we intend to respond to the needs of a growing population, and improvements related to road safety.
 
The RPTP recognises that our public transport system must deliver value for money, maintain or improve levels of service for existing users, attract new users to improve fare revenue, and reduce overall transport-related carbon emissions.
 
Proposals for 2023 include a single low fare, a simplified route network to operate 7am-7pm, 7 days a week, low emission buses, a regional commuter service from Motueka to Richmond, connecting on to Nelson, and an on demand local Stoke service. 
 
For 2026, it expands to including buses every 30 minutes on urban routes between 7am-7pm, 7 days a week, and a park and ride facility in Richmond.
 
The RLTP highlights the key transport issues facing our region in the next decade.
 
These include managing the increase in the number of vehicles on our roads and the subsequent effects on access and road safety; the need for road design to consider more sustainable transport options; and how our vehicle usage is affecting the environment.
 
Some of its recommendations include extending pubic transport options; improving the existing cycling network; and developing speed management plans.
 
Infrastructure Chair Brian McGurk says this plan will help Nelson continue its journey towards a fully sustainable transport system.
 
“We want to know your thoughts about our proposals. We know that the way we get from A to B will have to change if we are to meet our emissions targets, but are we doing enough to encourage people to use public transport? Do you support plans to expand the area that our bus service covers? Would a single low fare make taking the bus an even more affordable option?
 
“Our growing population can place considerable demands on our roads and public transport. If you want to know how we plan to address these issues, I really urge people to read both of our plans and share their views.”  
 
Consultation closes on Wednesday 17 March, and public hearings are scheduled for early April.                
 
To make a submission please visit: https://shape.nelson.govt.nz/connecting-nelson