Invitation for applications to operate bus routes

The Transport Department today (September 17) invited applications from the franchised bus companies to operate a package of bus routes for the Penny's Bay development area (PBDA).

The successful applicant will be required to provide service progressively in 2005 to tie in with the development programme of the PBDA.

The package includes three routes requiring about 30 buses for operation in 2005.

A spokesman for the department said that in designing the route package, consideration had been given to developments in the area, availability of existing and planned public transport services including the opening of new railways, viability of the package, traffic conditions on the roads, and the need to promote efficient use of resources and to enhance co-ordination among different transport modes.

"In assessing the applications," the spokesman said, "we will take into account the level of service to be provided, efficiency in using resources, management capability of the applicant, level of fares and the level of competition that would be brought to the provision of bus services in the area."

The deadline for submission of applications is noon on October 8, 2004 (Friday).

Applications received will be examined by a Selection Committee comprising representatives from Transport Department, Transport Advisory Committee, Home Affairs Department, Labour Department, Independent Commission Against Corruption, and Department of Justice. The Selection Committee will recommend the appropriate bus operator to the Commissioner for Transport for consideration. The Transport Department plans to announce the selection result around the end of the year.

Ends/Friday, September 17, 2004