City of Rockingham launch public survey in a bid to improve transport connectivity for locals

Rockingham locals are being urged to have their say in a new public survey provided by the city in a bid to help residents with limited access to transport remain connected within the community. For a number of years, the Rockingham Connect Community Transport Service has attempted to bridge the gap by providing door-to-door transport for eligible residents. Operated by volunteers, the RCCTS consists of two mini-vans — one of which is wheelchair accessible — and transports residents to several locations including local shopping centres, city libraries and the Autumn Centre. Through the survey, the city is hoping to determine who the transport disadvantaged residents are, the aspects of the community life they find difficult to participate in, and barriers that make it difficult for residents to participate in community life. Across the city there are almost 2000 households that do not have a car and transport is consistently raised as an area of concern with the city by community members. Rockingham mayor Deb Hamblin said this consultation with the local community would play an important role in guiding future project and transport advocacy. “Any residents that have difficulty participating in aspects of community life due to a lack of transport are strongly encouraged to complete the survey and inform us about their transport experience living in the City of Rockingham,” she said. “While the city is not directly responsible for the provision of public transport and associated infrastructure, the feedback gathered in this survey will provide the City with data we can use to advocate to the relevant State and Federal agencies.” “Growing and nurturing community connectedness and wellbeing is a key strategic aspiration for the city and issues relating to transport have a significant role to play in this.” Cr Hamblin added that city officers would visit local shopping centres throughout February and March to ensure the survey was accessible to as many locals as possible. Submissions close March 17, to complete the survey visit rockingham.wa.gov.au.