June 2008

Tunnel Option Welcomed but Funding Query Remains

Eden-Albert Auckland City Councillors today congratulated Transit for its decision to build a tunnel for the extension of SH20 through their ward in an attempt to minimise the disruption of the new motorway to the local communities.

Councillor Glenda Fryer says, "I am astonished the National Party's Transport spokesperson Maurice Williamson has criticised the decision as being 'politically influenced'. Is actually listening to what local people and their Council want 'political' or is it just commonsense? Mr Williamson and his cronies are ignoring what local people want, and it is disappointing that he now sees fit to criticise Transit for listening."

Councillor Mark Donnelly says, "In the Eden-Albert ward we have been striving for a better outcome for both our area and the city at large. Mr Williamson's cost accountant approach to major city building projects is deeply disturbing."

Local Eden-Albert Ward Councillors Cathy Casey, Mark Donnelly and Glenda Fryer say Transit has done a thorough job in the consultation they went through over many years, and, in the end, Transit has reached the correct decision in terms of constructing a tunnel that brings the least disruption to local communities.

Councillor Cathy Casey says the focus must now be on securing the funding for the tunnel, but not through tolling.

"The issue that must now be urgently addressed is how the tunnel is to be paid for. The people of Auckland have already given the big thumbs down to Transit over tolling. A huge majority told Transit last year that they don't want to pay twice for their roads," Councillor Casey concludes.

ENDS

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