Hon Nathan Guy
MP for Otaki

15th December 2009 Media Statement

Otaki MP welcomes Transmission Gully and SH1 programme

The Government’s announcement today on Transmission Gully and four-laning Western Link Road is “fantastic news,” according to Otaki MP Nathan Guy.

“This is a huge and exciting announcement for the region

“During the 2008 election campaign I promised to fight to get Transmission Gully built and I’m proud to have delivered on that pledge.

“The Western Link Road option has many benefits. It has the least impact on existing properties, is cost effective and avoids major disruption to the Waikanae and Paraparaumu town centres. This will allow both towns’ shopping centres to further develop.

“Four laning the Western Link Road enables the existing state highway to become a local road with plenty of opportunities for the future.

“These developments will open up Kapiti and Horowhenua to strategic growth. It will mean safer roads, quicker journeys and a real boost to the regional economy.”

Mr Guy says the alternative expressway around Otaki was also announced today and will remove the worst ‘choke point’ in the lower North Island, while still maintaining access to the popular destination shopping strip.

“Any Levin bypass proposals need further work before they are ready for community consultation.

“I know these discussions have caused uncertainty for some people, but we now have a long term vision that will accommodate our rapidly growing region.

“I want to support the community through the design phase next year to ensure we get the interchanges in the right places to connect our communities. In the coming months I will be working hard to make sure Kapiti’s interests are heard through the design process.

“I recognise there will be some opposition to the government’s expressway proposal but I believe the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages, particularly in the number of people’s homes affected.”

Mr Guy says the decision to build the Transmission Gully has been ages coming.

“Since I began campaigning for the Transmission Gully I’ve heard numerous stories about when it was going to be built, dating back decades. My petition in 2005 collected more than 5600 signatures in support of the Gully, so I know that residents in Kapiti will welcome the news and look forward to seeing bulldozers start.

“Likewise, every constituent survey I have undertaken over the years has shown that the number one issue for Kapiti residents has been transport infrastructure. This announcement today deals with a significant chunk of their concerns. Most people say to me ‘just get on and do something’ and that’s exactly what we are doing.

“The Labour government waffled for nearly a decade but never believed in Transmission Gully. They offered only 40% of the funding, leaving the region to fund the rest, which was never going to happen.

“I’m proud to be a part of a government which has the guts, vision and dedication to build the roading network we deserve,” said Mr Guy.

ENDS

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