Biennale at White Bay needs more transport links
Monday 04 March 2024
Inner West Council is calling on the NSW Government to urgently provide a shuttle bus service to the White Bay Power Station when the Biennale opens there this Friday.
Following the cancellation of a proposed ferry service to White Bay and the ongoing closure of Rozelle Parklands preventing access from the Lilyfield Light Rail stop, the Power Station remains inaccessible for many patrons travelling from across Sydney.
The only direct public transport route to the Power Station is a bus to the Rozelle Interchange, the place no commuter in Sydney wants to travel to.
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne has called on the Government to fund a shuttle bus service travelling from transport hubs to the Power Station in order to ensure the success of the Biennale.
“The Biennale should be the best thing to happen for our arts and cultural scene in decades, but the success of the event will be undermined if patrons simply can’t get to White Bay Power Station.
“We’d been informed that a temporary ferry service would be provided but that’s now been cancelled.
“Last week’s revelation that the Rozelle Parklands will remain closed due to asbestos contamination during the Biennale, leaving the Lilyfield Light Rail Stop blocked off from the venue, has worsened the situation further.
“With a bus to the Rozelle Interchange the only public transport link now available, we are very worried that the bumper crowds expected at the Biennale will simply not be able to get there.
“We’ve fought for decades for White Bay Power Station to be converted to an arts and cultural venue and are thrilled to have brought the Biennale to Balmain.
“Following the cancellation of Mardi Gras Fair Day, it would be a crying shame if the Biennale would also fall victim to Sydney’s asbestos crisis.
“Providing a shuttle bus service connecting local ferry wharves and light rail stops to the Power Station, as well as transporting patrons to visit bars, cafes, and restaurants on Darling St, is a practical way to ensure the success of the Biennale.
“Given how many impacts our local community has been subjected to throughout the Rozelle Interchange and the asbestos mess, I think Transport for NSW owes us some assistance here. I call on Josh Murray and Howard Collins to agree to provide this shuttle bus service before the Biennale opens.”
For media enquiries please contact Jonny Browne, Jonny.Browne@innerwest.nsw.gov.au