Following the release of a bus stop study, a government department has reiterated its commitment to improving the bus network.
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However, one Ballarat councillor is demanding greater action.
Responding to work undertaken by Victoria Walks, addressing the poor state of rural stops, a Department of Transport spokesperson made clear government's dedication to 'Victoria's Bus Plan'.
The plan sets out a pathway towards a modern, sustainable network.
"We're delivering 'Victoria's Bus Plan', which is improving the state's bus network to better meet demand, improve accessibility and performance, and deliver value for money," a Department of Transport spokesperson said.
"We know there is more work to be done, which is why we regularly review safety across our network."
The spokesperson explained planners, in determining the location of bus stops, aim for approximately 400m between stops in non-rural environments. Other issues are considered as well.
"(The focus is to) balance the adequate servicing of an area with the need to keep an efficient journey," the spokesperson said.
"(Planners) take into account the safety of the location, considering factors such as pedestrian and vehicle movements.
"All bus stops are risk assessed each year. Where we identify safety concerns, or the public notifies us of concerns, we will investigate."
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The department emphasised ongoing communication will unfold.
"We continue to speak with key stakeholders, including council, on how best to improve public transport infrastructure in Ballarat," the spokesperson said.
Ballarat deputy mayor Amy Johnson is aware of problems with the town's bus stops.
"The condition and spacing of bus shelters (is) a Department of Transport responsibility," Cr Johnson said.
"Rural and regional areas are so often forgotten and, more often than not, receive the raw end of the deal in terms of funding."
Cr Johnson believes more pressure needs to be placed on state government.
"We, at council, provide $165,000 a year toward connecting infrastructure, such as footpaths, for the shelters the department installs," Cr Johnson said.
"This report highlights the need for council to continue to lobby the state government for increased funding for our bus shelters to improve their quality and also for better strategic placement of shelters.
"As our city grows, we need better public transport options. I'm calling for a complete review of the Ballarat bus network.
"The state government needs to encourage and support better use of our bus system and, part of that, is ensuring customers have a safe, warm, and dry place to wait for their bus to arrive."
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