A poorly designed bus stop in Kingston that has sat unused for over a year will cost Kingborough Council an extra $70,000 to fix.
The Channel Highway bus interchange, which was completed in January 2024, does not comply with disability standards and was built with corners too tight for buses to navigate.
The extra work will push the total cost of the project to more than $1.3 million, including $950,000 for the land and $300,000 for the original build.
Construction on the upgrade starts this week and will include wider footpaths, adjusted kerbs and entry points and new line markings.
According to a council project update, a formal review has also been commissioned to figure out what went wrong.
“Following the completion of the north bound Kingston bus stop, feedback from bus operators identified areas for minor design improvements to enhance commuter safety and operational efficiency,” the update said.
Once the new works are finished, buses will be tested at the site. If all goes well, services will shift back to the Channel Highway from Goshawk Way.
The council says the change will give passengers “easier access to shops, health services and key amenities in Kingston” once again.
“These upgrades ensure that Kingston’s public transport infrastructure remains safe, efficient and accessible for all community members,” the council said.
Previously released documents show the Department of State Growth had flagged design issues before construction even started, warnings that appear to have been overlooked.
