The Andrews Labor Government is expanding bus coverage and adjusting services across Plenty Valley to ensure the community has quick and easy links to the three new train stations on the Mernda line opening this year.

Minister for Public Transport, Jacinta Allan announced extra bus routes will be introduced, and times on existing routes adjusted, to ensure the community has simple and convenient access to the new stations.

New loop service Routes 388 and 389 will provide the growing residential area of Doreen with direct public transport access to Mernda Station and to Laurimar Town Centre, Hazel Glen College and Mernda Village Shopping Centre for the first time, at a high frequency.

A new bus interchange at Mernda Station will also allow passengers to easily transfer between trains and local bus routes.

New stations at Hawstowe, Middle Gorge and Mernda open later in 2018 following investment by the State Government to extend the existing South Morang line eight kilometres to the future Mernda Town Centre.

These stations are expected to cater for up to 8,000 commuters a day, better connecting these growing areas in Melbourne’s north to work, study and entertainment.

Existing bus services along Plenty Road will be changed to avoid duplicating the frequent train services to and from the new stations, and bus timetables adjusted to align with school times and the new train timetables.

Travel information will be available on the PTV website one month before the new services begin. To plan your journey visit ptv.vic.gov.au

Quotes attributable to Minister for Public Transport, Jacinta Allan

“We’re making it simpler for people to get to where they need to go by public transport, and to get home sooner at the end of the day.”

“Whether its laying new track, removing level crossings, upgrading signalling, adding extra services to improve public transport access to jobs, education and services – we’re getting it done.”

Quote attributable to Member for Yan Yean Danielle Green

“The Mernda Rail Extension and these new bus services especially the 388 and 389 loop services will open up transport access to the Plenty Valley area like never before.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Suburban Development and Member for Mill Park Lily D’Ambrosio

“We’ve listened to local communities in Melbourne’s northern suburbs and are delivering extra public transport services where they are needed most.”