“Survey Of Aucklanders Shows Regional Land Transport Strategy On Right Track”

10 November 2000
The public opinion survey, “Auckland’s Transport Corridor Network” released yesterday by the NZ Automobile Association shows that the Regional Land Transport Strategy is working to achieve what Aucklanders say they want.

“The Regional Land Transport Strategy aims to complete both a public transport network and a roading network for the region, providing balance and alternatives in transport options,” said ARC Transport Committee chairman Les Paterson.

The Automobile Association’s survey of 800 Aucklanders found that those surveyed overwhelmingly wanted improvements to both roading and public transport networks, not just to one or the other. “The survey results show that our strategy for the region is on the right track,” said Mr Paterson.

The Regional Land Transport Strategy was prepared by the Land Transport Committee, which includes representatives from all of the region’s councils and key transport stakeholders, and was released in November 1999 along with the Regional Growth Strategy. Together they provide a blueprint for Auckland’s future.

“There are network roading projects underway, as outlined in the Strategy. As a region we are also working hard to gain control of and access to Tranz Rail’s rail corridors. They are by far the most cost-effective option we have for creating an effective public transport network that doesn’t have to compete with traffic. Gaining control of them is crucial to our ability to achieve what Aucklanders want for public transport – effective networks,” said Mr Paterson.

“As a region, we are working hard on all fronts to achieve what Aucklanders want. We hear the calls that the AA is making for implementation of these networks by 2010. For that to be possible, we all have to work together and we are committed to that.”

“The AA is also calling for a central agency to take responsibility for implementing transport. This is worthy of consideration, but we shouldn’t let governance issues slow down the progress we are making in implementing the network,” said Mr Paterson.

For further information please call:
ARC Transport Committee chairman Les Paterson, phone 09 366 2000
For a copy of the Regional Land Transport Strategy phone ENVIROLINE on 0800 80 60 40.

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