The NSW government says it will consider bringing double-decker buses back to Sydney streets, almost two years after the idea was slated by transport operators.
In a statement, Transport Minister John Watkins said the government would "consider purchasing" state-of-the-art double-decker buses.
In June two years ago, the return of double-decker buses was promoted by bus operators as a way to carry more passengers without increasing the number of buses causing congestion on Sydney's streets.
At the time, Mr Watkins said he was "happy to have a look" at the proposal.
After recently inspecting a double-decker model bus from Hong Kong, Mr Watkins again raised the possibility of using them in Sydney.
"Double deckers have a special place in the hearts of Sydneysiders and if they are the right solution for our bus operators then we'll certainly consider them," Mr Watkins said.
"The last time they were used in Sydney, over 20 years ago, they were not a great model bus and had some reliability problems, but the one I inspected was state of the art and would fit within a modern bus fleet."
The "re-announcement" drew criticism from the NSW opposition, which said Mr Watkins had considered double-decker buses twice before.
"With a series of negative headlines this week highlighting John Watkins' incompetence as transport minister, he's desperately reached into his bag of tricks and re-announced the possible return of double-decker buses," opposition transport spokeswoman Gladys Berejiklian said in a statement.
"The Iemma government has become an expert at the re-announcement. If only they were as good at actually delivering the promises contained in their media releases."
The double-decker models being considered by the government can carry 120 passengers, are air-conditioned, have ramps, and are low-floored for wheelchair access.
"The company claims that three double-decker buses are roughly the same length as two bendy buses, but can carry around twice as many passengers," Mr Watkins said.
"These buses are most suited to the long-haul routes such as into the city from the Hills District and I believe some private (operators) have expressed an interest in this particular model type."
