11 May 2009
National’s barbarian bulldozers at the gate of Mt Albert
National has publicly confirmed that the bulldozers are set to roll out a major aboveground motorway through the Mt
Albert electorate, following questioning from Green Party Co-Leader Dr Russel Norman this afternoon.
“Above ground for me,” confirmed Melissa Lee on today’s radio 95bFM radio debate.
Dr Norman is pleased that Ms Lee has finally admitted which roading option she prefers, after Ms Lee prevaricated and
avoided answering the question on TVNZ’s Q and A programme on Sunday morning.
On a Mt Albert candidate discussion on 95bFM’s ‘The Wire’ today, Dr Norman pressed Ms Lee for clarification on her
position. He asked her directly: “So you’re saying you want above ground?” Ms Lee responded: “Above ground for me”.
“Finally the voters in Mt Albert know what Melissa Lee wants” Dr Norman says. “And that is that she is supporting an
option which bulldozes through the Mt Albert community.
“Melissa Lee’s proposal is an outrage for the people of Mt Albert. It will demolish hundreds of houses, and destroy one
of the last remaining greenspaces in the electorate.
“Just yesterday I went on a guided tour with Friends of Oakley Creek. I was impressed with the commitment of all the
volunteers and local schoolchildren who have helped replant and enhance this unique jewel in the Mt Albert area that is
now at risk.
“Lee’s motorway will compromise if not destroy this fragile ecosystem.”
“The real solution to Auckland’s transport woes is not more motorways but better public transport, safer walking and
cycling. These will actually reduce congestion rather than inducing further traffic, as motorways always do.”
Dr Norman invites the people of Mt Albert to have their say on transport issues in the electorate this Wednesday May 13.
The debate is at 7.30pm at Unitec’s Faumuina Gold Theatre and is hosted by Eden Albert Community Board chair Christopher
Dempsey.
Debate details
When: 7.30pm on Wednesday
Where: The Faumuina Gold Theatre in Unitec’s building 180. Entrance is Gate 4 on Carrington Rd, Mt Albert. The theatre
has gold-coloured doors and is in the foyer of building 180.
ENDS