Taxi drivers and motorcyclists may have unrestricted use of bus lane

28/11/94

Taxi drivers and motorcyclists may soon have unrestricted use of the Kwinana Freeway bus lane.

Transport Minister Eric Charlton said today the Department of Transport was reviewing the use of the bus lane by taxis and motorcyclists.

"Currently, taxis are able to use the bus lane in the morning peak hours because they conform with the strict safety and operational requirements of using the lane," Mr Charlton said.

"Motorcycles are currently prohibited from using the lane."

Mr Charlton said that since it was opened five years ago, the bus lane had proven a big success.

"Bus passenger numbers have increased by 40 per cent and more than 3,000 bus passengers use the bus lane daily during morning peak hours," he said.

"Because of its successful use by taxis in the restricted time available to them, the Department of Transport is reviewing the use and capacity of the lane with a view to allowing taxis unrestricted use.

"As a further safety enhancement, the department is looking at extending use of the lane to motorcyclists.  This measure would greatly reduce the risk of conflict between motorists and motorcyclists on the Kwinana Freeway at all times.

"If unrestricted access is approved, this will be on the clear understanding that when the lane is fully required for bus use any time in the future, taxis and motorcycles will have to stop using it."

However, Mr Charlton said greater demand for the lane by buses was not expected to occur for some years.

Media contact:  Dean Roberts  321 7333