LOBBYISTS are calling for extra train services on the Werribee line after new data revealed passenger numbers at the line’s two Wyndham stations increased more than 15 per cent between July 2008 and June 2012.
Patronage at many Melbourne stations fell over the same period, with Altona station’s passenger numbers decreasing 31 per cent (from 409,000 to 282,000).
Public Transport Victoria data shows close to 1.1 million passengers used Werribee station between July 2011 and June 2012, a 17 per cent increase from 2008-09 when the station was used by 907,000 people.
Hoppers Crossing also recorded a 17 per cent increase with passenger levels increasing from 1.1 million in 2008-09 to 1.3 million in 2011-12.
Wyndham Transport Advisory Committee chairman John Menegazzo said the group would advocate for more trains to be put into the system.
“Public Transport Victoria will say more trains can’t be added until the Regional Rail Link comes on board, but that is still two to three years away and doesn’t mean we can’t keep pushing for [more trains].”
Mr Menegazzo said there was also a case for new stations to be built in the municipality, including the proposed Derrimut Road station which will eventually be part of the Werribee Employment Precinct.
A PTV spokeswoman said more services could run on the Werribee line once the Regional Rail Link was complete.
‘‘RRL will remove bottlenecks between Metro and V/Line trains by providing separate tracks through to the city, creating the extra capacity needed to boost the number of services on the Werribee line.”
