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

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