16 December 2003

MEDIA RELEASE

Transit releases programme for development of Alpurt B2

Transit New Zealand today released its programme for development and consultation of the state highway from Orewa to Puhoi (Alpurt B2) as the first toll road under the new Land Transport Management Act.

Chief executive Dr Robin Dunlop says this programme underscores Transit’s commitment to the completion of this important strategic transport link as soon as possible.

Transit submitted the programme to the Environment Court on Friday in response to the Court’s request for a report on Transit’s programme of consultation and development of the application of the tolling provisions of the new Act, following the passing of the Land Transport Management Act 2003.

Consultation on Transit’s Land Transport Programme and on tolling as required under the Act and would take place by mid 2004 said Dr Dunlop.

Under the Act Transit is able to bring forward the completion of Alpurt B2 by funding its construction through tolling. Transit is required to consult on developing Alpurt B2 as a toll road.

To enable it to meet this date Transit has begun the tendering process to select designers and potential builders who will assist Transit in delivering Alpurt B2 as a toll road.

“This is a complex job and it will require support from all areas of the community if we’re to begin construction of Alpurt B2 as early as December 2004.

“We are sure this programme will be welcomed by the local community especially by those who live and work in Orewa. It will also be welcomed by people who wish to avoid the current tortuous route on their way north,” says Dr. Dunlop.

Following some further design work, Transit will seek funding for the project through Transfund New Zealand’s 2004/2005 National Land Transport Programme, and from borrowing, to be repaid from tolling revenue.

Transit’s consultation with the community on Alpurt B2 tolling options is scheduled to begin in early 2004.

ENDS

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