[publictransport] Review submission draft 2

[Brianna Laugher]

Slightly modified after some feedback on this list and talking to
Jill. Main differences:
1 strengthened, remove any mention of bikes being discouraged at any time
2 strengthened
6 "laws" -> "regulations", "one month" -> "significant period of time"
7 remove Connex (so install bike hooks on all carriages)
9 separated into two parts, detail added.

cheers
Brianna

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DRAFT 2
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BtBB review submission

Bin the Bike Ban is a coalition of cycling groups and individuals
gathered to overturn the recent DOI ban of bicycles on peak-hour
trains. We represent over 500 individuals and have connections to many
cycling groups.

Our position is that cycling and multi-model travel must both be
encouraged as part of an integrated public transport model that aims
to minimise car use. The benefits will be seen in improved public
health, reduced road congestion, and reduced oil reliance.
Cycling should be supported by the government as a normal form of transport.

In addition, we feel that this issue was poorly managed with limited
consultation and public awareness prior to the ban taking force.

While encouraging "feeder travel" to train stations by introducing
secure bicycle parking is a laudable aim (that we support), we seek
acknowledgement that passengers may unavoidably need their bicycle at
both ends of a train journey, and these passengers should not be
disadvantaged.

Unless otherwise specified "carriages" and "trains" refer to both
V/Line and Connex.

==Short-term goals (next two months)==
1. Repeal the ban, effective immediately.

2. This consultation process needs to be widened and cycling groups,
both regional and metro-based, must be participants.

3. Improved communication to rail staff about locker management. It
seems that the existing lockers are not able to be utilised maximally
because rail staff are uncertain or unwilling to perform that
function.

==Medium-term goals (2008-2009)==
4. Formalise a code of conduct for carrying bicycles on trains and
publicise via pamphlets and possibly posters. For example, have
diagrams/photographs of how to carry bicycles on the various types of
carriages. Many cyclists may never have had someone teach them how to
carry their bicycle in a way that minimises impact to other
passengers. This may also reassure would-be cyclists that carrying a
bicycle on a train is a legitimate activity. Sign preferred sections
of carriages for carrying bicycles.

5. Ongoing consultation with local cycling groups such as region-based
Bicycle User Groups (BUGs) must be formalised and implemented as a
necessary component of the decision-making process.

6. Changes to regulations that reduce mobility compared to the current
situation should be announced a significant period of time ahead of
implementation. Notices should be installed at relevant stations for a
similar period.

7. Modify existing carriages to incorporate more flip-up seating and
install bicycle storage loops/hooks.

8. Increase secure bicycle parking at stations.

9a). Increased frequency of V/Line services. (This may include partial
services that do not run the entire line.)
b) A standard, separate bicycle/luggage container should be introduced
on all services that do not already have one.

==Long-term goals==
10. Formal adoption of an integrated (public) transport policy that
encourages multi-modal travelling. Promote cycling as a normal
commuter activity and just another form of transport.

11. Make "suitable bicycle storage provisions" a requirement of any
future train stock purchases, with the expectation that numbers of
passengers carrying bicycles will increase.

END