Refreshing to see Auckland and Wellington collaborating on transport
For some time the Auckland Business Forum has been calling for an aligned, single Wellington-Auckland transport strategy
and action plan:
• An agreed strategy that clearly sets out Auckland’s and Government’s immediate and next generation of transport
investments.
• A package of short- and medium-term projects that focuses on removing congestion bottlenecks and improving
access to where most Aucklanders live and work.
“It is therefore gratifying that Government and Auckland Council have reached agreement on the foundation principles on
which they will build a single 30-year transport strategy over the next few months,” said Auckland Business Forum
chairman, Michael Barnett.
He was commenting on the release today of the Foundation Report produced as part of the Auckland Transport Alignment
Project.
The report clearly shows Auckland’s serious population growth impacts on the transport system, and especially the need
for investment to address congestion and access to employment for people living in west and south Auckland – more than
20km from the city centre.
Transport Minister Simon Bridges’ reference to looking for an evidence-based strategy that takes politics out of
transport planning and investment is exactly what is required, said Mr Barnett.
“As well as lifting our game in improving public transport, it was also reassuring to hear the message of intention to
ensure the strategy gives has a strong focus on enabling freight distribution.”
By mid-year Auckland business expects to see a document setting out a single transport strategy with an agreed package
of immediate projects that reduce congestion, supports economic growth and productivity, and guarantees access to
employment and housing development areas, concluded Mr Barnett.
ENDS