Have your say on Wellington's 30-year transport strategy

Public feedback is sought on the proposed Regional Land Transport Strategy (RLTS), the region’s transport policy blueprint for land transport investment over the next 30 years.

Fran Wilde, Chair of the Wellington Regional Transport Committee, says the committee’s long-term aspiration is to deliver an affordable, integrated, safe, efficient, resilient and sustainable transport network.

“The RLTS is closely aligned with other strategies which the region’s councils have adopted and has economic, social and environmental outcomes for the region that will guide transport infrastructure investment. So we’re keen to hear if people think we’re heading in the right direction.”

She says the updated RLTS acknowledges the new direction of central government, particularly its creation of eight Roads of National Significance around the country. “One of these is the SH1 Wellington Northern Corridor (Levin to Wellington). We can now plan for this crucial corridor knowing that the funding commitments are in place. This is a huge step forward for the region.”

Another significant feature of the proposed RLTS is the rail upgrade project. “More than half a billion dollars is currently being invested in the regional rail network and, even though we are now getting close to delivering that, we also need to plan in the RLTS for further improvements, such as more peak hour services, more trains, and upgrading stations and park and ride facilities,” Wilde said.

The proposed RLTS also includes a comprehensive approach to travel demand management aimed at increasing public transport use, reducing reliance on private motor vehicles and increasing cycling and walking travel especially for short trips. It also includes advocating for government policy to enable road pricing and supporting rail freight initiatives where the net benefits exceed those of road freight.

The proposed RLTS 2010-2040 can be viewed online at www.gw.govt.nz/rlts2010. Copies are available from main libraries around the region and Greater Wellington Regional Council’s Wellington and Masterton offices.

Submissions close on Friday 23 April, and the final RLTS is expected to be adopted around July 2010.