A platform for launching faster action

Auckland – Wellington transport package – “A platform for launching faster action”

The “aligned” Auckland Council – central Government 30-year transport strategy is a welcome step forward but needs to be supported by a single proactive action plan to achieve faster delivery of key Auckland transport projects that are vital to the road freight sector, says David Aitken, chief executive of the National Road Carriers.

“With expectations that freight and truck activity will grow by around 60% in Auckland in the next 30 years, it is very obvious why an accelerated programme to address critical Auckland transport projects is needed.”

He was especially concerned that priority projects listed in the package such as improved access to Ports of Auckland and improved connection between East-West Link and East Tamaki were likely to be held back for delivery in the late 2020s because of a lack of funding.

“These projects are vital to supporting Auckland’s growth and productivity through a more efficient freight sector performance. If we are to have any chance of reducing congestion in the foreseeable future it is critical that these and a number of other projects are accelerated.”

Auckland is a freight hub for the upper North Island. The road network linking the freight distribution companies located around Penrose, Southdown and East Tamaki is critical to the efficient functioning of Auckland’s day-to-day economy, and the distribution of freight to key destinations such as Ports of Auckland, Auckland Airport as well as towns and cities of the upper North Island.

The NRC will be working closely with the Auckland Business Forum and others to find ways to support accelerated action for the delivery of the strategy. “While it is welcome that Auckland has finally achieved an aligned strategy with Wellington, it will only be judged as successful if it is matched by an aligned action plan that ensures fast delivery,” concluded Mr Aitken.

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