Fresh approach urged for Basin transport

Wellington City Mayor Celia Wade-Brown is urging transport officials to take a fresh approach to transport solutions in the Capital.

The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has announced that it is appealing the decision of Environmental Protection Agency’s Board of Inquiry in July to decline the proposed Basin Reserve flyover.

Mayor Wade-Brown says that the Council is committed to better transport choices for Wellington.

“The NZTA’s decision to appeal the flyover decision does not change Wellington City Council’s commitment to improving choices across the city and the region, which includes some solution at the Basin Reserve. We can't wait for the outcome of the appeal to get on with a fresh look at transport,” said Mayor Wade-Brown.

“Council remains supportive of the Ngauranga to Airport strategy, based on a multi-modal approach of improvements to our roading networks alongside better public transport, cycling and walking facilities.

“As a city, a region and a country we must also consider progressive ideas to reduce peak demand on our roads. These aims are prominent in our draft Urban Growth Plan.

“The proposed Bus Rapid Transit routes, including the Wellington CBD to Newtown, via the Basin Reserve, and Council’s strategic cycling network are projects where the city can significantly improve choices in the way Wellingtonians get around.”

Deputy Mayor Justin Lester, acting Chair of the Transport and Urban Development Committee, said Wellingtonians want to see real solutions for transport issues at the Basin.

“The NZTA are fully entitled to appeal, however I wouldn’t support Council participating in this appeal.

“We do remain committed to working with NZTA and community stakeholders to find better transport solutions."

Wellington City Council will be a leading participant in a three way committee with NZTA and Greater Wellington Regional Council to consider both the Bus Rapid Transit and the Ngauranga to Airport projects. This is expected to include fresh eyes on roading from the Terrace Tunnel to the Airport.

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