Media Release
20 August 2009

Proposed New Road Vital for Improving Access to Wellington

The proposal to build a four-lane expressway between MacKays Crossing and Otaki is a major step toward bringing the region’s transport infrastructure into the 21st century according to the Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce.

“We will scrutinise the details carefully and provide feedback in due course but our initial reaction is very positive,” said Chamber CEO, Charles Finny.

“It is essential for the future of the regional economy that access into and out of Wellington is as good as it can be. Today’s announcement represents a major step toward that goal and demonstrates the government’s commitment to correcting the regional infrastructure deficit.

“The options proposed for the expressway are a departure from previous plans for the network in the area, and so we would be disappointed if this means that the building of the new road is delayed too much. It is important that we act as quickly as possible. The region is tired of inaction.

“Both options will provide much needed increased capacity for State Highway One including a second bridge over the Waikanae River which will improve linkages for locals.

“As well as being crucial for Wellington, this is a strategically important route nationally. It is essential that the capital city be well connected to the rest of the country and that the major link between the North and South Islands is improved.

“We strongly support the government’s aspiration of four-laning the entire route between Wellington Airport and Levin within 10 years and we look forward to seeing the proposals for the remaining segments of the route.

“In this regard, Transmission Gully, which is further south of the segment covered by today’s announcement, must not be revisited as part of this process. It has clearly been established as the best option for that part of the Route," Mr Finny concluded.

ENDS

© Scoop Media