Roads At The Expense Of Rail Not An Option

The future of rail services outlined in the Government’s rail ‘turn-around’ plan raises concern for the Auckland Regional Council (ARC), particularly with the planned investment in roads.

The Government released its plan to increase rail and improve profitability in May this year. The plan aims to make rail services viable over the next 10 years by increasing rail frequency, productivity and revenue while modernising assets.

The ARC’s Transport and Urban Development Committee is concerned that the ‘turn-around’ plan may reduce medium to long-term options for improving rail services under the current economic conditions, especially with the continued investment in roads over rail.

“There has been an uneven playing field between road and rail for some time and it is vital this inequity is addressed. Rail is an effective alternative transport for both people and freight. We cannot afford to ignore rail,” says Cr Christine Rose, chair of the committee.

At the meeting, KiwiRail confirmed the rail line linking Auckland with Northland has an uncertain future.

“The Government’s plan will have a direct impact on improvements to the transport network between the Auckland and Northland regions,” says Cr Rose.

“We are advocating that a common cost benefit analysis between rail and road investment be applied. The Regional Land Transport Strategy supports this view and stresses the need.”

The committee has also asked for an investigation into inland ports, or freight hubbing, to maximise freight transport by rail, including services to Marsden Point in the medium to long-term.

ENDS

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