The Auckland Transport reforms announced Friday 5 Sept give Aucklanders a clear choice this election between evidence-based transport policy and a failed approach that will only worsen congestion.

Transport Minister Chris Bishop, Mayor of Auckland Wayne Brown, and Minister for Auckland Simeon Brown, announced in Auckland today the planned introduction of AT legislation. Auckland Transport was established alongside the Supercity with the intent of separating high-level transport strategy (set by Council) and implementation. Unfortunately, this hasn’t happened in practice.

Under the new legislation, Auckland Transport will retain control over public transport, but the delegation of other functions will be up to whoever is elected this year. With the future shape of transport in Auckland at stake, this is a very important election.

Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa Councillor Julie Fairey says “it’s important we get this right so that the increased transport powers for local boards, actually empower local communities, not tie elected members up in bureaucratic knots. It’s a great opportunity for Aucklanders to control their own transport destiny, let’s work together to make that happen.”

“We’ve had a lot of Wellington coming over the top of local community wishes lately, particularly overruling neighbourhoods who chose safer speeds and defunding public transport commitments like electric ferries. This has the potential to give Aucklanders more power over our own transport destiny, done right.”

The legislation will transfer Road Controlling Authority to Auckland Council, with local boards gaining control over local and collector roads, while arterial roads and the City Centre will be controlled by the governing body. Additionally, the legislation brings policy functions back in house, with the formation of a Regional Transport Committee for 30-year regional planning who will be made up of elected Auckland Council members and Ministerial appointees.

Councillors and local board members will now have to weigh up the competing demands of our scarce road space and decide how to use it most effectively. Waitematā Local Board candidate and transport writer Connor Sharp says “We know what works, space-efficient modes such as public transport, cycling, and walking are what keeps our transport system moving, while forcing everyone into their cars and into congestion slows this city down.”

“Providing proper transport choice isn't just good for the transport system. Investing in, and prioritising, public transport gets more Aucklanders to where they need to go faster, while reducing emissions. Making cycling safer allows people to get around in a fun, healthy way. And by making our communities more walkable, we lessen noise and air pollution, while creating space to build connections with our neighbours.” says Sharp.

This local election there is a clear choice between voting for policies that will make congestion worse or policies that make for a functioning transport system. City Vision is committed to safe, efficient transport for all Aucklanders.

Note:

City Vision is an alliance of Labour, Greens and community independents working together for progressive change in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. Since 1998, City Vision has championed policies that support a liveable, safe, connected, healthy, economically and environmentally sustainable city for all Aucklanders. City Vision stands candidates for the Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa and Waitemata and Gulf wards; the Albert-Eden, Puketāpapa and Waitematā local boards; and the Portage Licensing Trust.

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