PERMANENT residents at the Swan Valley Tourist Park are infuriated that there will still be no extra bus services to their area, despite the State Government rolling in 650 new buses over the next decade.
The State Government last week announced that the new buses would replace older vehicles, with no plans to add to the existing fleet for five years.
Park resident Laurie Hill said for the nearly 100 residents in the park relying on just two bus services a day, it was disappointing that they have been left virtually stranded along West Swan Road.
On weekdays there is one bus into Midland at 9am, returning at 4pm, and no services on weekends, which Mrs Hill said was unacceptable for those travelling in for medical appointments or shopping.
“We have no means of going anywhere. It was very nice of the government to give us free public transport on Sundays, but we would like some buses to go with them.”
Having lived in the park for 13 years, Mrs Hill said they weren’t asking for much when they expected the State Government to provide a basic bus service to their area.
“People outside just don’t understand the ramifications,” she said. “This is taking away our independence.”
The residents have turned to West Swan MLA Rita Saffioti for help, and hope the State Government will listen to their request.
Ms Saffioti was concerned this latest announcement would mean for residents in the Swan Valley, who despite living in one of the country’s fastest growing areas, have very limited services.