The Adelaide Metro bus services operating in Gawler will be modified from this Sunday following a review undertaken by The Department of Planning Transport and Infrastructure. Local Member of Parliament, Mr Tony Piccolo said the new services will improve access to bus services while reducing the cost of some services. “These changes will deliver a better outcome for Gawler taxpayers,” Mr Piccolo said. “While in general the community supports the current bus services, the new services are designed to respond to two key criticisms; that the services are not flexible enough and some services have too little usage. “The demand driven services will be extended to weekends and Adelaide Metro pricing and concessions will apply to the service.” “As a result of the new measures, seniors’ card holders will be able to travel free to connect to trains or travel into the township at no cost. “Peak time services were working very well, however, off peak services were not attracting enough patrons. “It is critical that we maintain a sustainable public transport service in the town to ensure that people can access basic services, like visiting a doctor and participate in community activities. “These changes are designed to get more bums on bus seats, and deliver a better outcome for taxpayers. Peak time services will not be changed as they are well patronised and meet the needs of students travelling to local schools, workers connecting to the trains or travelling into Gawler’s CBD area. Off peak, services on the 493 and 494 routes will be delivered on a demand basis, rather than the current fixed routed, fixed time. Services on routes 491 and 492A and 492C remain unchanged. The savings made from the fixed route services have been reinvested into the new demand response services operating off peak and on weekends. Mr Piccolo said that the off peak services will operate as needed, rather than travelling around town empty. “Any user with an approved medical condition can apply for a medical exemption to be eligible for a door to door service,” Mr Piccolo said. More information about the improvements to the service can be found at www.adelaidemetro.com.au or via phone on 1300 311 108 or at this link: 495 ON-DEMAND bus service Mr Piccolo said while the changes may sound a little complicated at first glance, they are quite minor, but will require some planning and a (free) phone call by some users, but the service will be better and cheaper for many. Adelaide Metro will be promoting the changes in the services at local bus stops and will be providing information on board the local buses.