Picture: ANDREW KACIMAIWAI
A Northern Sydney shuttle service operator has come to the aid of suddenly stranded Central Coast residents.
The Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Community Transport (HKCT) will step in to fill the gap left by the sudden liquidation of Community Transport Central Coast Limited (CTCCL).
A Transport for NSW (TfNSW) statement says it is also talking to the Transport Workers Union about the jobs of former CTCCL drivers.
CTCCL announced recently it would cease its services as of Friday, September 20, and go into voluntary liquidation from today (September 27).
TfNSW says that not only did CTCCL agree to allow HKCT to operate the service until the end of the year but that HKCT says it will take over the Shirley Shuttle, a non-TfNSW contracted service.
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison is happy to see such a quick, if temporary, solution.
“Community transport is an essential part of the Central Coast’s transport network as it allows eligible seniors, pensioners and those with limited access to public transport to get to health services, shopping and stay connected with family and friends,” she says.
MP for the Central Coast David Harris says the issue has caused widespread anxiety.
“I am glad arrangements can now be put in place to ensure passengers aren’t left in the lurch following Community Transport Central Coast’s decision,” he says.
MP for Swansea Yasmin Catley says the sudden closure left many frustrated and without a means to move around.
“Reliable public transport is crucial to the lives of Coasties and the government has stepped in … This means passengers won’t be left in the lurch and can continue to access an essential community service,” she says.
MP for Gosford Liesl Tesch says she is glad to see an agreement in place.
“For the many community members who use this service, community transport isn’t a luxury, it is a vital connector that ensures that individuals can access essential services, including health care, social connection, and shopping.
Central Coast clients can call (02) 4355 4588 to discuss their service needs with the new provider.
