Transit Short Sighted With Cheap Harbour Crossing Proposals
North Shore MP, Dr Wayne Mapp, has today criticised as being short sighted Transit New Zealand's two preferred options
for a new crossing of the Waitemata Harbour.
"This crossing is going to become a permanent feature of Auckland for a very long time, and this should not be built on
the cheap," argued Dr. Mapp.
"Putting another crossing through the existing corridor is an unimaginative short sighted option, clearly driven by a
government that doesn't wish to invest the money required in vital Auckland infrastructure. It apparently did not even
investigate the obvious option.
"The best option for the Auckland region is a tunnel from Esmond Road to Mechanics Bay, linking with the Eastern
highway, Grafton Gully, and the eastern central city.
"Such a link will provide motorists with more options, reduce cross city travel, and provide an easy connection to East
Auckland and South Auckland.
"A tunnel is essential to minimise effects on neighbouring properties, and when completed will have no negative effect
on Devonport residents.
"Such an option is more expensive, but can be funded through the use of tolling which most North Shore residents are
prepared to pay for an improved transport network.
"This crossing is a project that will be used for generations, and deserves to be built with long term planning in mind,
not short term politics," concluded Dr. Mapp.