Motorway Network Completion by 2015

30 January 2009

Media Release

SH20: Waterview Review should identify ways to accelerate vital project

The Government decision to review the SH20 Waterview project is understandable given the $1 billion increase in its cost, said Auckland Business Forum chairman Michael Barnett.

He noted that:

• Some of the construction elements to take the budget from $1.8 to 2.8 billion were not included in the first costing.

• The Government has a limited budget for road and rail projects and should be focusing on best value for the Auckland and NZ economies when choosing where to spend its money.

Waterview is the last section of the Western Ring Route and is scheduled for completion by 2015. The rest of the route will be finished by 2011, so Waterview’s completion “is still urgent so a tight timeframe on any review is absolutely critical,” said Mr Barnett.

ENDS