[Canberra Times] Bus Passengers left in Cold at temporary interchange.

The closure of the Belconnen bus interchange is causing trouble for elderly public transport users as they battle cold weather and a lack of facilities.
The depot was closed on May 25 this year as part of a multimillion-dollar redevelopment of the Belconnen Town Centre. It is expected to reopen in 2011.

Margaret Brookes, 72, said even though the buses arrived at shorter intervals, standing was uncomfortable.

''I have to take the bus because I can't drive. I need a little rest after I've walked to the bus stop so, no, I'm not pleased about the situation,'' Mrs Brookes said.

The temporary set-up includes a permanent station on Cohen Street and two temporary stations on Lathlain Street and Cameron Avenue.

Opposition transport spokesman Alistair Coe said the temporary bus stops needed shelter and seating.

''There is a complete shortage of signage, seating and shelter ... if you're going to get people to use the network and use Belconnen bus interchange you have have to have basic amenity, and if you don't have that in place it's going to be very hard for people to take up public transport,'' Mr Coe said.