Penlink on line for 2008 start

Penlink on line for 2008 start

RODNEY DISTRICT COUNCIL MEDIA RELEASE
From the office of Mayor-Elect Penny Webster

Orewa, 23rd October 2007

Enabling legislation for a regional fuel tax could see the beginning of Penlink construction as early as next year.

The legislation provides a funding tool to allow new projects such as Penlink to receive national funding.

Rodney District is seeking a commitment for Penlink of up to $120 million under the programme.

Outgoing mayor, John Law, describes the enabling legislation as "a fitting end" to his tenure as mayor.

"This Council has long championed the need for central government funding for Penlink, and now all of our hard work has paid off. I know that the incoming Council is keen to support this program, and this alternative revenue source will allow the Penlink project to finally get underway, said Mr Law

Rodney's new mayor Penny Webster is also pleased.š "The incoming Council is delighted with this measure. The community has demonstrated time and time again its support for Penlink, and this is a major step forward in bringing the project to fruition," she says.

"We couldn't have hoped for a better welcome as an incoming Council. Rodney has many times made the case that Penlink opens up huge employment and investment opportunities for Rodney, particularly in Whangaparaoa and the Knowledge Economy Zone in Silverdale North. This announcement will really kick start the new Council's commitment towards economic development and new jobs for Rodney."

Mrs Webster says the Rodney District Council hopes to call for tenders for the Penlink project early in the new year, and award a contract in mid-2008 with construction starting soon after.

ENDS

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