Corridor consultation days draw big crowds
Opus International reports that approximately 3,000 people attended the six Eastern Transport Corridor consultation
days. The stage two public consultation programme finished last night at the Orakei Community Centre, following days
held at Botany Downs, Pakuranga, St Johns, Parnell, and Panmure.
“I am pleased those potentially affected by the project and other interested parties are taking the time and making the
effort to participate in the extensive consultation process,” Auckland City Mayor Hon John Banks said today.
“Frustrated commuters, residents living along increasingly busy roads, business-people, transporters, and interest
groups continue to have the opportunity to contribute in a positive way to the design and route of this multi-modal
corridor which will cater for cars, buses, rail, pedestrians, and cyclists.”
Opus is in charge of the detailed investigations and the consultation over what route, shape and transport form the
corridor should take.
Mr Banks said the consultation process would always mean uncertainty for some people because of the fact that every
technically feasible option must be canvassed.
“I suspect many people came along to the latest consultation days because stage two examined more than 40 route
variations and subsequently many found themselves potentially in the path of the Corridor. The sooner we can arrive to
the most sound and sensible route early next year, the better it will be for everyone.
“Research tells us there continues to be overwhelming support for the Eastern Transport Corridor among the wider
community. People just want us to get on with the project so we can meet their future needs as both drivers and public
transport users. Sir Barry Curtis and I are committed to network completion and this includes the Eastern Transport
Corridor.”
Mr Banks reiterated that the extensive public consultation process is taken very seriously, with the public’s
suggestions and ideas set to shape the finer details of the project.
“The community has been and will continue to be heavily involved, with the views of those for and against the Corridor
well known. Doing nothing, as is the opinion of the overwhelming minority, will continue to be argued, but one thing’s
for sure, it is not an option. Auckland will remain in the international backwoods unless we build world class
infrastructure,” said the Mayor.
The Info Bus, which has been a feature of the consultation days, will be parked up at 10 different locations along ‘the
route’ and open for the next week until Friday, 24 October.
Those interested can contact the project team by telephoning 0800 100 848 or email easterncorridor@opus.co.nz.
Information is also available in the latest newsletter and via the website www.aucklandcity.govt.nz.