30 November 2012

Environment Canterbury endorses transport statement

At a council meeting today Environment Canterbury became the second of the Urban Development Strategy partners to endorse the Greater Christchurch Transport Statement with Commissioners agreeing to sign the statement of intent.

“By endorsing the GCTS we are signalling our commitment to a collaborative ‘one network’ approach to the transport system across greater Christchurch,” says Environment Canterbury Commissioner Rex Williams.

“It is not designed to replace any existing plans or programmes but is there to bridge the gap between the higher level Regional Land Transport Strategy and the local transport plans, including our own Regional Public Transport Plan.”

Along with the UDS partners, KiwiRail, Christchurch International Airport Ltd, Lyttelton Port of Christchurch, CERA and the Ministry of Transport are also involved in providing a consistent and integrated approach to planning, implementing and managing transport needs across the greater Christchurch area.

Mr Williams explains that a key point of difference of the GCTS, and where it has added the greatest value, is that for the first time it reflects the local issues and priorities of KiwiRail, the airport and Lyttleton port.

“The involvement of all GCTS partners is important to achieve an efficient and reliable transport network that addresses the changed needs of people and businesses since the earthquakes as well as supporting the recovery and growth of Canterbury.

“For Environment Canterbury it means our top priorities within the GCTS are around the operation of a suitable public transport network that has room for growth, such as the soon-to-be launched Metro hubs and spokes model.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media