5 July 2005

Wellington MPs back transport solution

Wellington region's eight Labour MPs have welcomed the government announcement of a further $660 million (ex GST) for the Capital's western transport corridor.

They have also assured local government they will support whatever option the region chooses in order to give it the best chance of success, Wellington Central MP, Marian Hobbs said. She chairs the forum of the region’s MPs, councils and business organisations, which meets regularly on regional issues.

"We have worked hard to get the money. It's now up to the region to agree on the best solution," Marian Hobbs said.

"Today's announcement is easily the most significant in Wellington's recent land transport history.

"This Labour-led government has now delivered a 10-year funding solution for addressing the western corridor. Last January the government announced $225 in new money for transport in the region and today's $660 million announcement takes the total announced this year to $885 million (exGST).

"It is further proof of the government's determination to reverse years of underinvestment in the '90's and the funding would not be possible in the face of unsustainable tax cuts. The benefits that will flow from this transport solution, including the easing of access and congestion in the region, will have a national spin-off as well."

MPs on the Wellington regional forum are: Paul Swain, Trevor Mallard, Annette King, Marian Hobbs, Luamanuvao Winnie Laban, Darren Hughes, Georgina Beyer, Mahara Okeroa and United Future Leader, Peter Dunne.

ENDS

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