Newcastle’s new private transport operator, Keolis Downer, has overhauled the Newcastle Transport bus and ferry network with new routes and timetables. 

What are the key points?

Keolis Downer says it will introduce 1200 new bus and ferry services. The new network includes four key routes with buses every 15 minutes. Three of the four main routes connect with the Stockton ferry at Queen’s Wharf. 

What about the ferries?

The ferries will run every 15 minutes from 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday (down from the current 20 minutes in peak periods) and every 30 minutes on weekends. 

Will route numbers change?

Yes. Each route will have a two-digit number as opposed to three.

When does it start?

The new bus and ferry timetable come into effect on January 14.

Are the timetables out yet?

No, they will be available from January 2.

Will fares stay the same?

Yes. Fares are set by the state government and not by Keolis Downer.

How do I find out more?

The Newcastle Transport website, newcastletransport.info, has route maps and displays the frequency of services on each route. Full timetables come out on January 2.

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