28 July 2005
Greens' Wellington transport plan extends to the Wairarapa
The Greens' new Wellington Transport Plan includes a proposal for a high-speed electric train service through to the
Wairarapa, says Green Wellington Transport Spokesperson Sue Kedgley.
"We want to see faster and more frequent rail services to the Wairarapa by expanding electrification thru to Featherston
and then Masterton. Making sure new trains are capable of high-speed running on the Wairarapa's long straight rail lines
will also be a priority.
"To facilitate efficient local transport, we support Masterton and Featherston developing within existing boundaries
with strong town centres. We'd also push for cycling facilities to be upgraded and for bikes to be carried free on
trains."
The Greens' Wairarapa candidate, Claire Bleakley, sees a number of advantages for the 2000+ people who commute every day
between the region and the capital.
"The Green plan to invest in the whole region's antiquated rail system includes upgrading to state-of-the-art trains,
signalling, information services and stations, which will make the service user-friendly for everyone, particularly
elderly and less-abled passengers," Mrs Bleakley says.
"We also want to see a return to bolted tracks to prevent heat buckling in the summer and safety measures such as lights
at every rail crossing.
"An 'inland port' at Masterton will get more freight on to rail and reduce the number of trucks using the Rimutaka hill
road."
Ms Kedgley: "The Greens' Wellington Transport Plan calls for a state-of-the-art public transport system throughout the
region, with light rail from the Hutt and Johnsonville through to Courtney Place and the airport, a modern fleet of
trains and railways stations and trolley buses powered by electricity generated by wind turbines"
The Greens' Wellington Transport Plan is below.
ENDS