Media Release

17 August 2012

Basin Reserve Roading Improvements Supported

The Wellington Employers' Chamber of Commerce supports the proposed roading improvements at the Basin Reserve as a means of alleviating a major congestion point in the city's traffic.

"We have no choice but to improve this constrained road layout which is clogging up the whole system and causing unnecessary and costly delays,” said Chamber President Richard Stone.

"Not only is the road at full capacity but projected population and economic growth means increased congestion is likely in the future.

"The improvements will bring significant economic benefits to Wellington from increased transport efficiencies and quicker journey times. There will also be environmental benefits through reduced emissions and we are pleased with the accommodation of public transport, cycling and walking in the plan.

“It is disappointing a tunnel option has been shown not to be feasible but we are pleased that effort has been made to investigate this alternative.

"The separation of the north-south traffic from the east-west flows is necessary to alleviate the congestion and the proposed bridge is clearly the most cost effective of the options considered.

“We are also very pleased with the commitment to minimise its visual impact which is very important. In this regard the plan to run the road beneath the new Memorial Park, as announced last week, is very welcome.

“At last we have some certainty on this project. We look forward to the construction starting as soon as possible,” Mr Stone concluded.

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