Bus fare review plan

Press, 27 November 1980, Page 6

Bus fare review plan

A full review of the Christchurch Transport Board’s fares and concessions was urged at a meeting of the board’s marketing committee yesterday. A Labour member, Mr T. N. D. Anderson, submitted proposals which he said had to be acted upon quickly to counter falling patronage of the board’s buses. He wanted to promote bus travel by offering a wider range of concessions; to maintain fare revenue by increasing some fares and

decreasing others; encourage off-peak travel; and to accelerate moves away from cash fares. The committee agreed, and moved that subject to full board approval a review of a fare structure be 'Commissioned soon. 5 “We must lay the groundwork for action in the middle of next year,” Mr Anderson said.

His proposals included the replacement of the City Clipper service with an inner-city flat rate of 10c, the introduction of annual

passes, and a central shuttle service.

A fare schedule was submitted, estimated for June, 1981, that allowed for another increase. Mr Anderson said this was “inevitable” unless the Government helped transport boards more.

The public would have its part to play in any review. Suggestions and comments about any aspect of the board’s activities would be welcome, the • committee said. . '