Submitters share views on Region’s transport network

Horizons Regional Transport Committee heard from 14 submitters to its draft Regional Land Transport Plan during a meeting in Palmerston North on Monday 9 February.

The Regional Land Transport Plan sets the strategic direction for the Region's land transport system and identifies proposed activities for investment by local and central government over the next ten years.

A total of 39 submissions were received throughout the December/January submission period and will be considered by the Committee in adopting its final version.

Rail was a hot topic amongst those who spoke in support of their submissions, with a number suggesting options for increased passenger services between northern parts of the Region and Waikanae.

Rangitikei District Council and Rangitikei resident Cath Ash asked the Committee to advocate for Kiwi Rail to reinstate Northern Explorer stops in Rangitikei, while others brought up the need to consider the Joint Transport Study relating to an integrated network in Palmerston North and multimodal transport.

Chair of the Committee Bruce Gordon says community input is vital to creating a Plan that meets the Region’s economic, social, environmental and cultural needs. Submissions received by the Committee were of a high standard and well presented.

“We received submissions on all aspects of transport planning from rail and roading design to community resilience following emergency events, research and economic growth. These views will help shape Committee decisions around the final Plan and we appreciate people taking the time to have their say,” he said.

The draft Regional Land Transport Plan remains available to view online via the current consultation section of Horizons’ website www.horizons.govt.nz and will be finalised by the Committee during their next meeting on Tuesday 3 March.

People will also have an opportunity to have their say on the Region’s approach to public transport when the draft Regional Public Transport Plan is released for public consultation in March.

ENDS

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