Media Statement

Monday, 30 June 2003

Baldock welcomes Bay of Plenty highway funding

United Future's transport spokesman and Tauranga resident, Larry Baldock, MP, welcomed Transit's announcement today of funding for the Domain Road and Hewletts Road projects to begin in the 2003/2004 year.

"Domain Road particularly, has been of major safety concern and it is heartening to see the re-prioritisation of Transit's ten-year plan to take this into account," he said.

While Mr Baldock expressed some concern as to why the Hewletts Road, Mt Maunganui Road flyover must first of all be reviewed before work can start, he welcomed the news that has it has moved higher up in the priority.

"We will certainly be urging the Government to make sure this review is conducted expeditiously and does not delay the project's implementation.

"What could be more important than improving traffic flows to New Zealand's largest port? Surely this is in line with the Government's transport objectives," he said.

Larry Baldock also welcomed the announcement of three more passing lanes between

Athenree and Tauranga over the next three years. The safety issues of State Highway 2 between Katikati and Tauranga are already well known and the announcement of work to improve this highway will be welcomed.

Mr Baldock said he would be working hard in negotiations to ensure the planned funding package for all the SRN needs - including the second bridge - would be adequate to complete Tauranga's roading infrastructure.

ENDS

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