Are the public transport services in Primrose Sands sufficient?
Recently, I wrote to the Department of State Growth seeking clarity on the population data used to determine public transport service levels in Primrose Sands.
Primrose Sands currently receives one return service to Sorell, two days per week. I am keen to gather feedback from local residents to understand whether these service levels are sufficient. This follows comments from several residents who believe there has been a noticeable increase in permanent residents in recent years. The 2021 Census recorded a population of 1,209.
The Tasmanian Government contracts Area Connect to provide transport services to small and remote communities that cannot sustain daily bus routes, generally those with populations under 500 people. These services link communities with existing public transport options, and this model includes Primrose Sands.
In response to my request for clarification about how service levels were determined, and whether they have been reviewed in light of recent growth, State Growth advised that the most recent population data they used showed Primrose Sands grew by around 160 people between 2016 and 2021, bringing the total population to 1,369. This is an increase in population of 13% in 5 years.
They also advised they will continue to monitor the area, including reviewing 2026 Census data once available.
I welcome any feedback from Primrose Sands residents about whether the current public transport services are meeting the needs of the community.
If you have any ideas or thoughts regarding public transport services in Primrose Sands, please get in touch!