Media Release: 12 May 2009

Toll-free Western Ring Route Good News For Motorists

The Government’s decision to complete the Western Ring Route by constructing a toll-free Waterview Connection is welcome news for motorists.

“The Waterview Connection is one of the most important pieces of motorway in Auckland, however until now it has had no funding certainty. Today’s decision to fund the road from the National Land Transport Programme provides that much needed financial guarantee, and means the road will be built and the Western Ring Route completed,” says AA spokesman Simon Lambourne.

“The AA welcomes the news that the Waterview Connection will not be tolled. Aucklanders clearly told the government in 2006 that they would not accept tolls on the Western Ring Route. Motorists will be delighted that message has been heard and accepted, and that they will now be able to drive the entire Western Ring Route without paying a toll.”

“The AA was most concerned to learn from transport officials recently that tunnelling the Waterview Connection would have meant the Western Ring Route would not be completed by the 2016 deadline.”

“Today’s announcement keeps the project on time. It sensibly caters for future traffic growth. It means completion of the region’s motorway network is one step closer. It means the Western Ring Route will soon deliver New Zealand an economic benefit of approximately $840 million every year.”

“The Government’s announcement is a brave one - it may hurt them in the Mt Albert by-election so they should be congratulated for putting the interests of the Auckland region and New Zealand ahead of any local political interests.”

ENDS

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