15 December 2009 Media Statement

Hard work pays off for Transmission Gully

Labour Transport spokesman Darren Hughes says the decision to give the go ahead to the Transmission Gully project is welcome news for motorists of the Wellington region.

“There has been a long history of advocacy for the Transmission Gully route from both sides of politics so it’s great to see that hard work has paid off, “Darren Hughes said.

“Current MPs Winnie Laban, Peter Dunne, Nathan Guy and I have been fighting for it to become a reality. We should also recognise former MPs Margaret Shields and Roger Sowry for their support and efforts.”

Darren Hughes said Labour in Budget 2007 put $84 million towards preliminary planning work on the project which resulted in $275 million being shaved off the original cost.

“That initial work made the project viable and was money well spent because it has led to today’s decision to make Transmission Gully a reality,” Darren Hughes said.

“As always though the devil will be in the detail and some questions remain about the timeframe for completing the project and how exactly it will be funded.

“Tolling is a reality, but at what level is a question still left unanswered.

“But in general terms this is progress. An alternative route in and out of the capital is much needed for commuters and transporting freight.

“This has been a vision for many for some time now. We must all now ensure that it can become a reality on budget and on schedule,”

ENDS

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