The new plan for Auckland's public transport system and regional committee has been supported by the Restaurant Association.
The Restaurant Association has welcomed the decision to return regional public transport policy and planning to Auckland Council and establish a new Auckland Regional Transport Committee.
“These changes mark a significant step towards ensuring that transport decisions better reflect the needs of local communities and businesses, including those in the hospitality sector,” said Marisa Bidois, CEO of the Restaurant Association.
“With Auckland Council gaining greater control over Auckland Transport and a focus on developing a 30-year integrated transport plan, the move promises a more balanced, accountable, and locally driven approach to transport policy. This is critical for fostering vibrant city centres and improving access to hospitality venues, which are key to the city's economic and cultural vitality.
“While implementation will take time, these changes signal a more collaborative future where decisions impacting the industry will be shaped by those with closer ties to the communities they serve.”
The transport announcement was made by Minister for Transport Hon Simeon Brown and Mayor of Auckland Wayne Brown. It came following several years of efforts from both local and central government groups to boost public transport within New Zealand’s largest city.
Under the previous council, then-Mayor Phil Goff led the city towards the City Rail Link as a viable solution to Auckland’s public transport system. The final stages of the City Rail Link were announced earlier this year, which will see three new train stations open in Auckland’s CBD, as well as a new-look Britomart station and Mt Eden station.
Public transport has remained a major issue for Auckland residents, who believe that there are solutions to fixing the city’s progressing traffic problems through the use of Public Transport.
Both the Council and Government have committed to working closely on improving the city’s public transport system heading into the future, as well as being a key election issue for voters.
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