Robertson Backs Plan To Save Auckland From Gridlock

The Congestion Free Network’s (CFN) public transport projects’ plan for Auckland offers the best solution to save the city from traffic gridlock, Labour leadership contender Grant Robertson said today.

The CFN sets out a 15-year plan for the phased development of public transport infrastructure across Auckland. It has been proposed by the youth organisation Generation Zero and Transportblog.

“I’m personally of the view that the Congestion Free Network is the best way to get Auckland moving. The focus of new investment needs to be on public transport if our biggest city is to develop an integrated transport network and provide Aucklanders with real transport choice,” Grant Robertson said

“If elected as Labour Party leader, I can give an undertaking that a Labour government that I head would work closely with Auckland Council to develop a long-term plan to deliver an integrated transport network based on the CFN.

“While there is a need for ongoing investment in some roading projects, the evidence is clear that just focusing on building more and more highways will inflict a financial and environmental cost that is not sustainable. Furthermore, such an approach will inevitably fail to reduce congestion, and will deny Aucklanders the transport choices that they want.”

Grant Robertson also expressed concern about the possible introduction of tolls on motorways. " There are some real equity concerns around tolls on motorways. While I want to see more people using public transport there is still a need for motorways to be freely available.

“A user charge on motorways has the most significant impact on low income earners and the household budgets of already vulnerable groups. A regional fuel levy seems like a more efficient and equitable option for funding."

“The CFN model will not only deliver better transport outcomes for Auckland, but it is also less costly. The case for a congestion charge is primarily driven by large roading projects that the CFN negates. That is why I support the CFN’s programme of staged investment of public transport services, including electric rail, more busways and a regional cycle network, across greater Auckland,” Grant Robertson said.

ENDS

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