Families in the Hunter will benefit from a new dedicated afternoon school bus service from Branxton to the Huntlee and North Rothbury areas starting from Monday 2nd June.
The Minns Labor Government is introducing the new S854 service following reports of overcrowding on the existing regular route service 179, after advocacy from local families, community members and representatives.
The new bus service will free up capacity on the 179 service, which is the most timely service for students from Branxton Public School students travelling home to Huntlee and North Rothbury. Students in Hanwood Estate should also continue to use the existing 179 service. The new S854 school bus service will be operated by bus company, Rover Motors while the 179 service will continue to be operated by CDC Hunter Valley.
Transport for NSW has worked with the schools, local families and operators to deliver the new service.
Details of the new S854 school service will be on at Transportnsw.info and https://www.rovercoaches.com.au/site/bus-timetables and journey planning apps.
Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison said:
“This brand-new, dedicated afternoon school bus service is a significant improvement for local families in Huntlee and North Rothbury.
“I am pleased we’ve been able to act upon local concerns that more capacity was required. Transport for NSW has developed a constructive solution based on community feedback.
“I encourage families to follow the bussing advice of the operators and schools so student numbers on these bus services can be managed and everyone can get home from school safely and on time.”
State Member for the Electorate of Cessnock, Clayton Barr said:
“This is a significant win for local families in this growing part of the Hunter.
“The new service will have capacity for around 65 passengers, taking pressure off the existing 179 service.
“I thank the Minister for urging Transport for NSW to rectify this issue, so school students can have a more seamless and less crowded journey.”
Duty MLC for the Hunter, Emily Suvaal said:
“It’s great to see action taken to add capacity to local bus services.
“This is an example of the Government focusing on getting services right so our community can grow and prosper.
“Kids and parents alike will benefit from this new service.”