AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL MEDIA RELEASE

5 April 2007

Auckland City Council pushes for quick completion of western ring route

Auckland City Council supports Transit New Zealand's decision to suspend tolling to fund completion of the western ring route, but is concerned that this vital transport project may be delayed.

In November, the council voted against tolling in favour of alternative funding solutions to complete the western ring route, a strategic alternative to State Highway 1, as soon as possible.

Stephen Rainbow, Transport general manager for Auckland City Council, says the council is pleased Transit has abandoned its tolling proposal.

"Our submission made it very clear that we supported alternative funding sources instead of tolls to meet the shortfall for this particular project.

"Although the council is not opposed to tolling in principle, we believe there are more suitable ways to fund this strategic motorway link connecting the north and south of the region," says Mr Rainbow.

"However, we're concerned that this key transport initiative benefiting the Auckland region will be delayed while Transit finds ways to meet the shortfall. We want to see the western ring route completed by 2015, particularly the Waterview connection."

The council's submission to Transit's tolling proposal suggested funding sources such as a regional petrol and carbon taxes, ending the current exemption on diesel, reviewing the road user charges system to ensure compliance and reviewing vehicle registration licensing fees.

Mr Rainbow says the council is working closely with Transit on behalf of residents and ratepayers.

"We are committed to working with Transit to expedite vital motorway projects to benefit Aucklanders. The council recently made another submission to Transit, this time on its 2007/2008 land transport programme and 10-year financial forecast," says Mr Rainbow.

"We have stressed the need for the early completion of the Victoria Park tunnel, the second Manukau Harbour crossing, the Newmarket Viaduct and the Newmarket Viaduct to Greenlane auxiliary lane.

"We will continue to advocate for the investigation and early completion of the State Highway 16 Grafton Gully project."

ENDS

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