Newly installed raised kerbing near Canning Vale Primary School has caught the attention of local parents and residents, who were surprised to see parking reduced and changes made with little explanation.
The works carried out along Warratah Boulevard, removed four parking bays and have sparked concerns about safety during school pick-up and drop-off times.
Some community members initially believed the changes were carried out by the City of Canning. Others speculated it was the result of poor planning, with one local commenting, “Not only have they reduced parking spots, if it’s for bus stops, it’s going to be a bit dangerous when the bus stops.”
However, both the Public Transport Authority (PTA) and the City of Canning have confirmed the kerbing works were part of a larger public transport upgrade linked to the new Nicholson Road and Ranford Road train stations.
A PTA spokesperson said the bus stop improvements were required to meet national disability access standards.
“Perth bus stops must comply with the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport,” the spokesperson said.
“This includes construction of a level concrete hard-stand passenger boarding area at correct kerb height, installation of tactile ground surface indicators, and construction of connecting pathway to the existing footpath network.”
The upgraded stops will be used by the Route 206 bus within the coming days.
The PTA said it carried out a full assessment before the work began, including checking the area against the Road Traffic Code and making sure the distance from the school crossing complied with safety requirements.
Four parking bays were removed as a result of the works.
The City of Canning confirmed the project was managed entirely by the PTA.
Mayor Patrick Hall said it formed part of bus route changes following public consultation by the PTA.
“The kerbing works on Warratah Boulevard were undertaken by the Public Transport Authority as part of broader bus network changes in response to the opening of the Nicholson Road and Ranford Road train stations,” Mayor Hall said.
He added that the PTA was responsible for notifying households and organisations likely to be impacted, and for assessing the safety and suitability of the location.
The PTA also said the selection of bus stop locations is made independently to ensure the best outcomes for the community.
