Why is a community shuttle bus being provided?
The Watson Street footpath is closed for safety while works to upgrade the Watson Street Interchange are underway. To help people move safely through the area during this closure, we are running a free community shuttle bus. The shuttle allows pedestrians and cyclists to safely cross the bridge and travel between Wallan train station, Wallara Waters and Wallan town centre.
How does the community shuttle bus operate and what are the operating hours?
The shuttle bus runs 16 hours a day, 7 days a week, in a continuous loop. It travels between Wallan train station, the entrance to Wallara Waters and Wallan town centre, making it easy for pedestrians and cyclists to move between key locations while the footpath is closed.
The community shuttle bus operates daily from 6am to 10pm. These hours are designed to support most pedestrian and cyclist trips throughout the day and evening, including commuting, shopping and social travel.
Buses will run every 20 mins from the following stops:
- Public Hall/Northern Hwy – 6am to 9.40pm
- Wallan Community Centre – 6.01am to 9.41pm
- McCarthy Ct/Watson St- 6.03am to 9.43pm
- Wallan Station – 6.07am to 9.47pm
- Wallan-Whittlesea Rd/Wallara Waters Rd – 6.08am to 9.48pm
- McCarthy Ct/Watson St – 6.10am to 9.50pm
- Public Hall/Northern Hwy – 6.14am to 9.54pm.
What should pedestrians do if they need to cross the bridge outside shuttle hours?
Pedestrians planning to cross the Watson Street bridge between 10pm and 6am should contact the project team by calling 1800 105 105 or emailing contact@bigbuild.vic.gov.au . The contact centre is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can provide assistance.
Is the community shuttle bus accessible? Can I get on with a pram or mobility aid?
Yes. The shuttle bus has been designed to support a wide range of users. It is a 47-seat low-floor bus, is wheelchair accessible, and includes bicycle and scooter storage to help people travel comfortably and safely.
How long will the community shuttle bus run?
The community shuttle bus will operate while the Watson Street footpath is closed, which is expected to be until mid-2026, to support pedestrians and cyclists throughout the works period.
How will I know where to catch the shuttle bus and do I need to book a seat?
You do not need to book a seat. The community shuttle bus runs in a continuous loop between Wallan train station, Wallara Waters and Wallan town centre.
Shuttle bus stop locations, routes and timetables are available on the project website and shown on signs in the area.
Will the shuttle still run on weekends and public holidays?
Yes. The community shuttle bus runs 7 days a week, including weekends, between 6am and 10pm.
What if I miss the last shuttle at night?
If you need to cross the Watson Street bridge outside shuttle bus hours, please call 1800 105 105. The contact centre is available 24/7, and can provide assistance or more information.
You can also catch these PTV services before and after the shuttle bus hours:
East to West
| Wallan Train Station (depart) | McCarthy Court (arrive) |
|---|
|
10.30pm
|
10.34pm
|
|
5.39am
|
5.44am
|
|
5.42am
|
5.46am
|
West to East
| McCarthy Court (depart) | Wallan Train Station (arrive) |
|---|
|
5.30am |
5.34am
|
|
10.59pm
|
11.03pm
|
If you arrive outside these times or need help planning your trip, please contact 1800 105 105.
Who do I talk to if I feel unsafe or unsure where to go?
If you are unsure about your journey or need help, you can call 1800 105 105 at any time. The contact centre operates 24/7 and can provide guidance or assistance.
In case of an emergency, please call 000.
Will the shuttle help with after-school activities and sports?
Yes. The community shuttle bus runs until 10pm, which supports a wide range of daily trips, including after-school activities, sports and evening travel.
Who do I contact if I have a special travel need?
If you have a special travel need or require assistance, please contact the project team on 1800 105 105. Support is available 24/7.
