News release

29 August 2005

Proposed Western Corridor Plan to go out to consultation

A proposed Western Corridor Plan will go out for public consultation following a preference vote made by the Regional Land Transport Committee (RLTC) today on adopting an integrated and affordable corridor package. Consultation will begin in September 2005.

Regional Land Transport Chair Cr Terry McDavitt said committee decided to go with the draft corridor plan/coastal route on the casting vote of the chair - the vote was 9-9 and Cr McDavittI abstained on the main vote and used his casting vote in accordance with normal procedure.

“The Western Corridor solution is not just about choosing between Transmission Gully or the Coastal Route despite the spotlight on this particular section. The corridor plan provides a comprehensive transport solution along the entire corridor which will enhance safety, improve access in and out of the region as well as enhance access to and from CentrePort,” he said.

Transit New Zealand regional manager Graham Taylor said that Transit welcomes the decision of the RLTC to go out to consultation on an agreed corridor plan.

“It’s now time to let the public have their input into the proposed plan which includes improved passenger transport, travel demand management, better access for freight and state highway and local road improvements,” he said.

Submissions can be made in writing to Western Corridor Public, Greater Wellington Regional Council, 142 Wakefield Street, Wellington. Submissions close 4pm on 3 October 2005. A series of public hearings will start on 17 November 2005 in the Greater Wellington Council Chambers, 142 Wakefield Street, Wellington. Written submissions should indicate if they wish to be heard.

ENDS

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