ALMOST 90 per cent of commuters travelling to work from the greater Launceston area will drive a car, according to a draft plan into the city's public transport.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Greater Launceston Metropolitan Passenger Transport Plan, released in the past week for comment, seeks to enhance travel options by foot or bike and encourage more people on to public transport.
The plan states that the high rate of dependency on cars has been due, in part, to a dispersed population and low-density development.
It also includes a five-year action plan, which highlights eight areas of high priority to be addressed in three years.
A total of 88 per cent of commuters into Launceston travel by car, followed by 8 per cent as passengers in cars, 5 per cent who walk and 2 per cent who catch a bus.
Another 2 per cent get to work some "other" way - 1 per cent on a bicycle and 1 per cent on a motorbike or scooter and less than 1 per cent by taxi.
The plan also reveals between 15 and 20 per cent of morning traffic is due to the school run.
According to the report, travel to and from the city and outer suburbs during peak times takes between 15 and 20 minutes.
"As a result, travelling by car is often the most rational mode choice," the report states.
"Travel time by bus compares unfavourably with the car, and consequently very few people who have the option to drive choose public transport."
Items regarded of high priority to be addressed include undertaking a Bus Services Review that takes in general access and student only networks; investigate the Launceston central business district interchange on St John Street; and when road upgrades occur, incorporate the needs of cyclists.
Investment decisions will be based around the priority areas.
For more information visit www.stategrowth.tas.gov.au/greater-launceston or phone 6166 4473.
Submissions close on April 10.