From the press room
Transmission Gully challenge – 2008-09-19 13:58:57.796
UnitedFuture leader Peter Dunne has challenged both Labour and National on Wellington’s proposed Transmission Gully Highway.
Speaking to the Road Transport Forum in Rotorua this afternoon, the Ohariu Belmont MP and long-time Transmission Gully campaigner described it as one of New Zealand’s most pressing infrastructure projects.
“The time to build Transmission Gully is long overdue.
“Over the last three years, we have been able to make progress on the development of the highway, with a clear plan for it now established.
“As part of its agreement with UnitedFuture, the government has set aside over $500 million towards the project, but a significant funding gap still remains,” he says.
Mr Dunne says it is expected that regional fuel taxes and road tolls will be needed to meet the shortfall.
“But Transmission Gully is a key part of the national highway network, State Highway One.
“Both Labour and National are committing to significant boost in infrastructure expenditure over the next few years.
“I am therefore challenging both Labour and National to spell out precisely what additional funding they will commit to Transmission Gully, and how that will be raised.
“I am also challenging both for a commitment that the construction of Transmission Gully will begin within the next three years,” he says.
Mr Dunne says UnitedFuture’s commitment to Transmission Gully is as staunch as ever.
“We are the only party that has been unshakeable on this.
“Now we want to make sure the next government shares our commitment and that Transmission Gully will be a reality within the next few years,” he says.
ends
Contact: Ted Sheehan
021 638 920
04 470 6985