Today’s announcement by the Prime Minister that the Government is committing to a business plan, and construction start date, for the City Rail Link is a strong commitment to Auckland and will ensure its future as a world-class city.
“This is an important and pragmatic announcement for our city. A connected and integrated transport system is crucial to helping our city grow and thrive” says Nikki Kaye.
“As the local MP I know the number of people living and working in central Auckland has significantly increased over the last decade and both the Census and the final shape of the Unitary Plan will give us greater clarity on the scale and location of growth areas
“The Government has always said this project needs to be fiscally responsible, and be backed up realistic growth figures. As we have seen with discussions around housing and the Unitary Plan, the rate of intensification and the location of that intensification have an important link to the timing of transport infrastructure.
“Over the last few years through meetings with the Mayor, local politicians, senior ministers and other stakeholders I have advocated strongly for the progression of this project. Through involvement in the route designation process, I have seen the potential impact on residents and businesses but also a general desire for certainty and for Government to give the green light to the CRL.
“The Prime Minister and the Minister of Transport, the Hon Gerry Brownlee, have worked hard to make this transport package a reality. In addition to the rail link, the Prime Minister signalled today support for two other next generation projects for Auckland – the additional harbour crossing and Auckland Manukau Eastern Transport Initiative (AMETI) and East-West Link.
“This CRL is a vital piece of our transport infrastructure that will significantly decrease transport travel times for people travelling from west and south Auckland, but also crucially better support the growth in the number of people and businesses living and working in the CBD.
“I look forward to continuing to work hard in Government to progress these projects. This is a giant leap forward and will enable Auckland to become the vibrant, diverse city that people want to live, work and come home to.“
