Bus lanes help make public transport a good option

Finding a solution to the region’s transport problems is the number one issue facing the Greater Wellington Regional Council over the next six to twelve months, says Greater Wellington’s Chairperson, Ian Buchanan.

“I’m pleased to say, that after many frustrating years, real progress is being made, says Ian. “Over the next year Greater Wellington will focus on working with government, city and district councils to find long-term solutions to funding improvements to our road, rail and other transport systems. 

“At the request of Greater Wellington and local body leaders, the government is currently considering a transport package to assist us to meet the region’s transport outcomes.” 

Getting the government to discuss the funding needs for the region is a major step forward.  “Our region has told government that there is a funding-gap for major projects – such as new roading and upgrading the rail system.  We need government to pay its share of the costs, along with ratepayers, road users and fare-paying passengers.  Only a combination of all these sources of revenue can meet the substantial costs of these projects.

“In September, Toll NZ, Transfund, and Greater Wellington announced funding for an upgrade to the trains running on the Johnsonville and Melling lines. In October, the government announced a $23 million funding package that will be used to refurbish the British Rail (BR) carriages for use on the Wairarapa line and those refurbishments will start to come on line as soon July next year. 

Ian says he is aware that the travelling public has been waiting patiently for the planned changes and improvements for some time and acknowledges the sense of frustration they may be feeling with the process.

“As a member of the travelling public myself I understand their frustration but I am also aware of the complexities required in making changes – the legal obligations and the funding processes that have to be gone through. It is by nature a long process but significant progress is being made.”

He says he looks forward to enjoying a new, revived transport system that recognises and best suits the special geography of the region – the wheels are turning.