A TWO-DECADE vision to guide the Illawarra region’s transport was released by the NSW Government during the week.

The draft Illawarra Shoalhaven Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP) identifies a range of short, medium and long term actions across public transport, active transport, roads and freight to support the region’s population growth and changing needs.

For the first time in over a decade, the Illawarra and Shoalhaven communities will be able to view an integrated long-term plan that sets out priorities based on evidence, data and extensive consultation with more than forty stakeholders including councils, members of parliament and community groups.

The draft report comes in the wake of the NSW Government ruling out road connections via the Illawarra Escarpment to the M1 Princes Motorway or Bulli Pass. Transport for NSW is assessing the potential extension of Memorial Drive to provide a bypass of the Bulli town centre, while also exploring a range of alternative solutions to improve traffic flow, safety and local amenity. See The Bulli & Clifton Times story: Escarpment routes ruled out as Bulli bypass investigations progress  

During the public feedback period, Transport for NSW staff will also be out across the region speaking directly with residents at local pop-up sessions.

The NSW Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast, Ryan Park said the region is growing fast, and the transport network needs to grow with it.

“This draft Plan gives our community a clear view of what the next 20 years can look like,” he said.

 “This work is about helping people get to work, school, the hospital and the beach more easily while keeping freight moving to support local jobs and industry.

“For locals, it means more reliable public transport, safer roads and stronger connections between our towns, suburbs and regional centres.

“I encourage the community to take a look and share feedback so we can keep shaping a strong transport future for the region.”

State MP for Heathcote, Maryanne Stuart said the draft Plan puts people first.

“It recognises that families across the region need safe, reliable and efficient ways to get around,” she said.

“I want the community to jump online, take a look and help us shape the final Plan.”

The NSW Government is calling on the community to have their say. Community members can view the draft Plan and provide comment until Monday, 9 February 2026 at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/illawarra-shoalhaven.

A community survey has been designed to help people provide feedback easily, and more detailed submissions can be uploaded or sent to engage.sritps@transport.nsw.gov.au or PO Box 477, Wollongong NSW 2520.

Free subscription to The Bulli & Clifton Times

OR DONATE BY CREDIT CARD

Don’t have Paypal? Instead, if you would like to support my work, you can leave a secure $2 credit or debit card donation here by tapping or clicking on the button below. Your generous patronage of my work and research, however small it appears to you, will greatly help me with my continuing costs.