Unfortunately, the plans probably don’t include a free shuttle… but if you’d like to try to convince Transport for NSW that they should, you’ll have a good chance to do so face-to-face next week.

With the above statement, the state transport body – which last week announced that it would scrap the free metropolitan Wollongong service from January 29 – has  invited residents to visit its “future transport 2056” van, which will be in town on Monday.

The visit is part of the state’s consultation for its Future Transport Strategy 2056, which is open for consultation until December 3.

And while the government has backed away from its past strategic plan commitments by announcing it will charge fares on free shuttle, investment in buses, car parking and congestion in the Wollongong CBD are among some of the long-term initiatives proposed in the draft plan for the next 40 years.

They include a car parking review to evaluate and prioritise car parking availability and use within Wollongong centres, a series of “Key Precinct Access Plans” and the establishment of areas where only “connected and automated vehicles” and active transport would be allowed.

There could also be “new rail and bus service improvements for Wollongong”, and a “Rapid Bus Package” for Illawarra/Shoalhaven.

The Future Transport Van will be in Crown Street Mall on Monday, and according to the transport agency’s social media, residents can “come and say hi” and share comments on the plans.