Auckland Transport Strategic Alignment Project terms of reference released

The Government and Auckland political leaders have launched a project aimed at achieving a common strategic vision for Auckland transport.

Transport Minister Annette King, releasing the terms of reference for the Auckland Transport Strategic Alignment Project, says she wants the project to develop a common Crown and regional vision for transport in the region.

"There is currently no systematic joint central/local government long-term transport planning in Auckland. Central government is expecting to contribute $8 billion to Auckland transport over the next 10 years, and before we go any further it's essential that both central and local government are working toward the same objectives," she says.

"This project will provide a common strategic view for political leaders to consider, including any key points of difference. It will also recommend actions needed to fulfil the agreed strategic view, and identify any funding pressures for both parties and recommend actions needed to manage such pressures."

The project will be led by a joint (Government-Auckland) Steering Group, supported by an officials working group. The steering group consists of Peter Winder (CEO, Auckland Regional Council), David Rankin (CEO, Auckland City Council), Alan Thompson (Secretary for Transport), Wayne Donnelly (CEO, Land Transport NZ), Andrew Kibblewhite (Director, Policy Advisory Group, DPMC), and John Whitehead (Secretary to the Treasury).

Auckland Mayor Dick Hubbard today welcomed the project, saying it reflects discussions held at the Auckland Mayoral Forum. "The Forum noted that there remained a significant gap between the expenditure planned to improve Auckland's transport system, and the funds available for this. Having an aligned central and local government transport planning vision will assist agreement about the scale and scope of programmes and effective investments."

Auckland Regional Council chair Michael Lee says the project will enable political leaders to reach a common 20 to 30 year strategic view of the development of the Auckland transport system, including the role of public transport and the rail network, and will also identify ongoing issues that will substantially impact on Auckland transport outcomes or long-term funding.

See:http://www.beehive.govt.nz for terms of reference. (Click on Annette King)

ENDS

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