7 June 2017

Wellington needs smarter road pricing, say transport advocates

Transport advocates are calling on the Government to introduce road pricing in Wellington.

John Rankin, a spokesman for Congestion Free Wellington, says smarter road pricing is an essential tool in addressing traffic snarls at rush hour.

“Drivers already pay indirectly to use roads, but with smarter road pricing such as tolls at peak times, it's possible to reduce congestion.”

He says road pricing works in London, Singapore and Stockholm, with revenue helping to fund high-quality public transport.

“Giving people more transport choices such as light rail and bike lanes makes it easier for those people who have to drive, such as tradies.”

"Peak time congestion charges can encourage people to leave their cars at home, but attractive alternatives must be made available. Otherwise, road pricing is unfair to people who have no choice but to drive during the peaks."

“Auckland is negotiating with the Government for a fair share of transport funding. We say Wellington also needs to make a strong case to the Government for a congestion-free transport network.”

ends

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