Public have say on transport plan

Northland’s Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) 2015-2021 is now halfway through its six-year lifespan and undergoing a legally required review, with public comment being sought until the end of the month.

The RLTP details local roading projects proposed by Northland’s three district councils, state highway projects put forward by the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA), and strategic projects and public transport matters dealt with by the Northland Regional Council.

Regional councillor John Bain, who chairs the Northland Regional Transport Committee, says the review has identified two new major projects for inclusion in the revised plan; the revitalisation of the Twin Coast Discovery Route and improvements to State Highway 1 between Te Hana and Whangarei.

Councillor Bain says an extended six-week public submission period (to allow extra time given the Christmas/New Year break) began late last year and runs until the end of January.

Instead of traditional public hearings, a series of ‘Have Your Say’ events was held around the region during the middle of January.

Councillor Bain reiterates there will never be enough funding – locally or nationally – to undertake all the desired construction, upgrading and maintenance work across Northland’s transport infrastructure.

“Given funding is limited, we need to ensure the proposed spend delivers the best benefits for our region collectively.” n To find out more and have your say, go to www.nrc.govt.nz/transportplan.