The People Celebrate the ARC's Decision to Build the Western Ring Route as a Free and Open Road

"On 14 November 2006, the Transport Committee on the Auckland Regional Council bowed to intense public pressure and voted against supporting Transit's proposal to toll the Western Ring Route" says Elaine West of RAM-Residents Action Movement.

"The ARC decision against tolls on Auckland roads is a watershed victory for the people - across Auckland in particular, and New Zealand in general."

"And it is fitting that the public battle to keep roads free and open, along with the Regional Council's stand against tolled roads - is celebrated as a mark of victory for those fighting against tolled roads around the world."

"The signficance of the Transport Committee is two fold. Not only did the Transport Committee reject tolls on Auckland's roads" says Elaine West, "but representatives will promote the public call for central government to load transport funds inrto an efficient public transport system in the region."

"Therefore, in the light of the public battle against tolled roads in New Zealand, we congratulate everyone who worked hard to make this watershed decision a reality."

"However, we cannot rest on our laurels, or from the battle" she says "for the fight to keep the nation's roads in public ownership for the public good, is not over."

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