Auckland Chamber on Labour transport policy

Labour’s speed of action to accelerate delivery of transport solutions –
“exactly what Auckland needs,” says Auckland Chamber of Commerce head, Michael Barnett.

“I think the competition of ideas between what the political parties are offering will give Auckland the best results.”

It is good that Labour are saying that they are not just producing a wish list, but recognize that they plan to build infrastructure that Auckland needs now, said Mr Barnett.

They have obviously recognized that what’s holding Auckland back is that we don’t yet have a world-class transport system. “In recognizing this they are offering competition of thought and innovation to the programme that the Government has started to unveil.”

In terms of who pays for the infrastructure it is also positive that Labour recognizes that Auckland Council needs to have more skin in the game, he added.

However, as with the Government’s transport programme, there are points of detail that will need to be worked through, for example:

· The most efficient way to get improved rail-based public transport services to Auckland Airport is to upgrade the SH20B corridor between the Airport and Puhinui Railway Station – a project that is about to get underway.

· Building light rail down the already heavily congested Dominion Road will need a conversation.

“Overall, however, Labour’s clear promise to invest in high quality modern public transport and set firm time lines to make things happen is exactly what Auckland needs,” said Mr Barnett.

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