Safety concerns close stop

A CityRide bus stop opposite Rotorua's Central Mall has been closed permanently due to safety concerns.

But the closure has disappointed some of Rotorua's less mobile residents who now get dropped off at either end of Amohau St.

The Bay of Plenty Regional Council transport policy manager Garry Maloney said significant work to try and mitigate some of the safety risks had not worked.

"Safety concerns include the large number of people waiting and moving around at the bus stop area, a significant number of people not using the controlled crossing to cross the road and issues with road space for safely pulling in and out of bus stops," Mr Maloney said.

Regular bus user Geoff Miller said he was disappointed but not surprised by the decision to close the stop.

"Obviously they feel quite strongly about this so I'll bow out gracefully. There's no need to make a big fuss," he said.

Mr Miller uses the bus service almost everyday and gets around with the help of a stroller or walking stick.

"I appreciate their concern, but there is a controlled pedestrian crossing there and I can make it safely across the road within the time limit. I haven't been going to the mall since they stopped using it. There are about half a dozen of us who always got off there, people less mobile then myself as well.

Tour buses only will be allowed to park there from 11.30am to 2.30pm to cater for the lunchtime tourist market. Outside of these hours, the section of Amohau St will revert to free car parking.