A very interesting article and good to see two of Australia’s most colourful and highly respected transport identities, John Hearsch and Mal Rowe, acknowledged and quoted.

The extended Victoria Street proposal is interesting. It would make sense to “prepare” the Swanston Street intersection for possible extension east.

We are yet to hear (?) the future of the disused section of the former route 8 but the current work on Domain Road suggests there are plans for reinstatement. And what about the “junction” at Toorak Road and Park Street?

Sydney had it right more than a century ago with various alternative and relief routes. Melbourne was different but the system has slowly evolved towards what could be called a Sydney style.

But the central district of Melbourne remains subject to regular disruption. Planned community events such as parades and processions and, in more recent times, demonstrations and protests. All cause disruption to the tram network. I believe the time has come for an alternative network plan to “keep the service going” (using old MMTB parlance) in times of disruption – both planned and spontaneous. With more curves and other diversionary options available, it would be relatively simple to devise a new “weekend” network with all routes running but not entering the central business district. I believe the current situation – where services are altered at short notice particularly at weekends – is not passenger friendly.

One thing is certain: the Melbourne network is subject to change and development so perhaps time for Melbourne based members of the TDU community to be out “getting the snaps” of everyday workings that may well become history before too long.

Paul in Melbourne