Media Release: 12 October 2006

Motorists urged to have their say on the Auckland Western Ring Route proposal

The AA is encouraging public discussion and urging motorists to provide feedback on Transit New Zealand’s proposal to use tolling to help fund Auckland’s Western Ring Route.

“It’s good to finally have the proposal released for public consultation - there has been a lot of speculation and we can now debate the merits based on facts, rather than speculation, and provide Transit with feedback,” says AA spokesperson Simon Lambourne.

“Auckland and New Zealand needs the Western Ring Route completed as soon as possible for sound economic and social reasons.”

“Transit‘s proposal includes tolling to cover an $800 million funding shortfall and the AA has been given an assurance that all feedback will be considered with an open mind. We therefore urge our Members and other motorists to participate in the consultation process.”

“The announcement of the $11.5 billion government surplus yesterday also raises questions over whether tolling is necessary to meet the shortfall.”

“The AA will be studying the details of the tolling proposal once all public documentation becomes available and once it has been briefed on the technical details by Transit. The AA will also be surveying its Auckland Members prior to making a formal submission on the tolling proposal.”

“The AA encourages all motorists to debate the pros and cons of this tolling proposal and ensure their views are heard by making a submission,” says Mr Lambourne.

ENDS

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