Esplanade set-down and pick-up bay offers commuters safer and easier option

Commuters and visitors to Perth will enjoy safer and easier access to taxis in the city, thanks to a new easy access passenger set-down and pick-up bay to be located near the Esplanade Train Station on Mounts Bay Road.

Transport Minister Simon O'Brien said the $45,000 purpose-built set-down and pick-up access bay would provide a designated area for taxi passengers to await and safely get into and out of taxis. It would also provide a safe place for train commuters to be dropped off and picked up.

"Taxis form an integral part of the public transport system.  The introduction of this easy access bay will be a major boost to customers and taxi drivers," Mr O'Brien said.

"Perth's Esplanade area experiences high volumes of traffic.  The new easy access bay will help reduce the risk of pedestrians walking out in front of moving traffic in an attempt to hail a taxi.

"The Esplanade area is an important commuter transport hub, with frequent train and bus services and the ferry terminal only a short walk away."

The Minister said the location was also chosen for its tourism value.

"This area is one of Perth's prime tourist destinations due to its proximity to many attractions including the Bell Tower, Perth Ferris Wheel, Barrack Street Jetty, the Swan River and Perth Convention Exhibition Centre," he said.