Bulls Bus Lane and Town Square
A new transport hub and public town square have improved safety, accessibility and created a vibrant community space at the heart of Bulls.
PROJECT COMPLETE
Completed: 2021
Investment: $1.03 million
Project Background
This project was about improving both the way people travel through Bulls and the way they experience the town.
For many years, Intercity bus services operated from the old bus stop on Bridge Street. While it had served the community well, the location no longer reflected the growing role of Te Matapihi – Bulls Community Centre as the heart of the town.
Construction began in November 2021 on a new bus lane behind Te Matapihi, creating a purpose-built facility for bus pick-ups and drop-offs. The new bus lane opened in March 2022, with the former Bridge Street bus stop permanently closing in May 2022.
Relocating bus services also created the opportunity to transform the space in front of Te Matapihi into a new town square.
The new green space was designed to provide a welcoming place where residents and visitors could meet, relax and enjoy community events. Landscaping, seating and open space have strengthened the connection between Te Matapihi and the surrounding town centre, creating a place designed for people rather than vehicles.
After the bus lane opened, Council identified that unauthorised vehicles were regularly using the lane. This led to several near misses involving buses, pedestrians and other vehicles, reducing the safety benefits the project was designed to provide.
To improve safety, automatic barrier arms with number plate recognition technology were installed. The system allows authorised buses and approved vehicles to enter while preventing unauthorised access, helping ensure the bus lane operates safely and as intended.
The project was completed with the installation of public lighting artwork in the town square, celebrating the identity of Bulls while creating an attractive public space for the community to enjoy both day and night.
Relocating bus services also created the opportunity to transform the space in front of Te Matapihi into a new town square.
The new green space was designed to provide a welcoming place where residents and visitors could meet, relax and enjoy community events. Landscaping, seating and open space have strengthened the connection between Te Matapihi and the surrounding town centre, creating a place designed for people rather than vehicles.
After the bus lane opened, Council identified that unauthorised vehicles were regularly using the lane. This led to several near misses involving buses, pedestrians and other vehicles, reducing the safety benefits the project was designed to provide.
To improve safety, automatic barrier arms with number plate recognition technology were installed. The system allows authorised buses and approved vehicles to enter while preventing unauthorised access, helping ensure the bus lane operates safely and as intended.
The project was completed with the installation of public lighting artwork in the town square, celebrating the identity of Bulls while creating an attractive public space for the community to enjoy both day and night.
What Changed?
- Intercity bus services now operate from a purpose-built facility behind Te Matapihi.
- The old Bridge Street bus stop has been replaced with a welcoming public town square.
- Automatic barrier arms prevent unauthorised vehicles from entering the bus lane, making the area safer for passengers, pedestrians and bus operators.
- The town square has become a community gathering place and a venue for local events and activities.
- Public lighting artwork has added a distinctive feature that celebrates the identity of Bulls and enhances the town centre.
