THE State Government will today unveil major changes to Bendigo’s bus network. The changes include several hundred more services each week, increased weekend travel and new bus routes throughout the city. Signs have already been placed throughout Bendigo and surrounding suburbs, including a new route that takes in the high growth area along Goynes Road at Epsom. More buses will be scheduled to travel from high-use areas, including Eaglehawk and Kangaroo Flat, where peak services will depart every 30 minutes. Other immediate changes include removing bus stops from Hargreaves Street and creating a central hub for commuters along Mitchell Street between Hargreaves and Queen streets. The changes will create improved connection to V/Line coach and train services, with all routes believed to include a stop at the Bendigo Railway Station. The changes will see up to 20 buses travel along Mitchell Street every hour. The move has angered CBD traders who have declared war on the State Government. They claim the changes will crucify their businesses. Violence, offensive behaviour and intimidation by commuters are already causing passers-by to avoid walking along Mitchell Street, therefore taking passing trade away from business houses. “This move would effectively transform the heart of Bendigo into a bus terminal,” CBD trader and Wizard Home Loans principal Peter Warcaba said. The traders are calling for a central bus terminal away from retail outlets. The new timetable is set to come into effect on April 28.
