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Media Release: 29 April 2013

AA welcomes Auckland’s alternative transport funding report and encourages motorists to have their say

The AA has welcomed the release today of the Consensus Building Group’s public discussion document – Funding Auckland’s Transport Future.

AA spokesperson, Simon Lambourne, says the AA participated constructively in the consensus process.

“The AA was focused on the best possible outcome for Auckland, and one which also provided a balanced and fair outcome for motorists.”

“The CBG has been quite clear in rejecting road pricing in the short term. Existing funding tools will provide Auckland with the additional money it needs over the next eight years to fund its roading and public transport projects.”

The CBG concluded that business and residential ratepayers, and Auckland motorists, should together contribute the bulk of the additional $400 million required for local transport projects. The CBG also agreed that central government must contribute additional funding, and that public transport users should play their part through small increases in fares.

“If we have to pay more, then all Aucklanders should contribute to the cost. The AA has always said that motorists should not be deliberately targeted, and the CBG support for this is welcomed.”

“There are two long-term funding options for Auckland beyond 2021. To continue using the existing tools, which spread the additional costs fairly across the region, or to introduce road pricing. Both these long-term funding options will provide the additional money needed for Auckland’s transport projects.”

“If Auckland chooses road pricing, there will also be some improvements in congestion levels – but it will not fix our congestion problem. Congestion on Auckland’s roads will be much worse in the future than it is today – Aucklanders need to know this when choosing between the two long-term funding options.”

“The AA believes Auckland needs to urgently complete the missing parts of the roading network, and we are committed to substantially increasing public transport investment.”

“A safe, reliable and efficient public transport system, throughout Auckland, will be essential as the cost of local motoring increases and congestion gets worse. Motorists need a viable alternative, if they decide not to use their cars and to save money and/or time.”

“Auckland motorists now have an opportunity to discuss the CBG document and to think about the important issues it has raised. We also encourage motorists to have their say by providing feedback. The AA will be undertaking research with its Auckland Members on the CBG’s proposals and the results will be provided to the council and central government.”

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