Mayor Curtis Welcomes Breakthrough Funding Decision

Manukau, along with the rest of the Auckland region, will benefit from the decision by Infrastructure Auckland to put $45 million towards Britomart, Manukau mayor Sir Barry Curtis said today. “It will kickstart a series of big improvements to public transport and open doors to wider developments which Manukau commuters will benefit from.”

In its first significant public transport funding decision, Infrastructure Auckland has agreed to allocate the money towards building of the transport terminal in downtown Auckland. Construction of the vital project can begin soon, although no starting date has yet been settled.

“This decision will be a springboard for other projects, especially the creation of an improved regional rail network,” Sir Barry said.

“It means people in Manukau will have better transport options when travelling across the region by bus or train, and a much improved terminal in central Auckland. This decision was an essential starting block, and will act as the breakthrough we’ve been looking for to get a massive upgrade of bus and train transport. It is also likely to hasten decisions about the planned new link for Manukau.

“I am now looking forward to a government announcement soon on its acquisition of the regional rail network. Progress is also being made on the proposed Manukau rail link which will enable train passengers to travel directly into the heart of Manukau city,” Sir Barry said.

A funding application on the Manukau link, which will extend the rail line from Wiri to Manukau city centre, is being made in November and there could be a definite outcome by March. Manukau City Council is planning to put $15 million into the $40 million project, which is expected to take 4 years to complete.

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