“Opened in 1948.” That’s what they whisper about Kingsgrove Bus Depot. Kingsgrove Depot began its journey on February 22. It eased pressure on the crowded Burwood depot.
At first, Kingsgrove Depot operated just 12 routes. Its fleet numbered around 50 buses. The routes were strategically closer to Kingsgrove. This clever placement reduced “dead running”. It also boosted efficiency.
Now, fast forward to today. Kingsgrove Bus Depot stands as a major hub. It houses 167 buses. These buses serve numerous inner west routes.
Kingsgrove Depot is located on the corner of Richland Street and Omnibus Road. It stands as a testament to Sydney’s transport history. Transit Systems operates Kingsgrove Depot today. They took over on July 1, 2018. Before that, the State Transit Authority ran it.
Once, Kingsgrove Depot had CNG refuelling. These facilities supported gas buses. But, the facilities needed upgrades. The compressors struggled with the number of gas buses. Funding issues arose. The refuelling facilities were removed. The gas buses moved to other depots.
For a time, Kingsgrove Bus Depot had 14.5m Scania buses. They served Route 400, now Route 420. However, these buses were scrapped by 2019 due to their age. Now, the fleet mainly consists of standard 12.5-meter buses.
There were plans for Volvo B12BLEA articulated buses. They were intended to replace the 14.5m buses on Route 400. But, a speed bump at Westfield Eastgardens posed a problem. It could damage the turntable on articulated buses. So, those buses went to Port Botany depot instead.
Kingsgrove Bus Depot has a rich history. It continues to adapt to Sydney’s transport needs.
Did you know Kingsgrove Depot took over routes from Burwood Depot? Routes like the 412 to the city and the 470 to Summer Hill. These routes became Kingsgrove’s responsibility. Kingsgrove Depot ensured efficient bus services for Sydney’s inner west. It has played a vital role in connecting communities. Kingsgrove Bus Depot stands as a landmark.