Getting roading right

Wednesday, 25 August 2004, 11:01 am
Press Release: Business New Zealand

Getting road funding right is one of the best things that could be done for the average New Zealander. That's the view of Business NZ, one of the sponsors of a major report* on roading infrastructure.

The report, released today, endorses the NZ Government's policy of accelerating roading projects through increases in petrol tax and makes the case for increased debt funding to complete projects in Tauranga, Auckland and Wellington and to substantially increase passing lanes around the country.

Business NZ Chief Executive Simon Carlaw says completing those four projects alone would substantially improve the quality of life of the majority of New Zealanders.

"The report shows that all projects could be funded out of debt with no cost to the Government and with a conservative pay-off of at least four dollars return for every dollar spent. The benefits in improved safety, ease of travel and reduced transport costs would be significant and sustained.

"As well as getting the funding right, Government also needs to get serious about the delays caused by RMA processes, conflict between Government departments and Land Transport Management Act consultation requirements. It currently takes 7 to 12 years to get even ordinary, non-controversial road projects through the consent process - this must change."

*Benefits of Investing in New Zealand's Road Infrastructure, a report for the NZ Automobile Association by the Allen Consulting Group http://www.allenconsult.com.au

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