Today’s announcement that a National Government would complete construction of the Eastern Busway and the Reeves Road Flyover in full by 2025 is a welcome move that will deliver real transport improvements for the people of Pakuranga and Botany, according to Simeon Brown, MP for Pakuranga, and Christopher Luxon, National Party Candidate for Botany.
“The people of East Auckland have waited for these projects for far too long but have finally been given some certainty when a National Government takes the reins on September 19,” they said in a joint statement.
“Over the last two years there has been too much indecision and delay by Auckland Council and Auckland Transport regarding the Eastern Busway, creating a great deal of uncertainty for our community who are desperately calling out for reduced congestion and improved public transport options.
“With over 160,000 people set to call east Auckland home by 2030, we need transport improvements now to handle the rapid growth in the area.
“The people of east and south Auckland will be delighted to hear that National will put the East-West Link back on the agenda to deliver better transport links for the Onehunga-Penrose area, the industrial and manufacturing backbone of Auckland’s economy.”
This project was previously supported by National since it was first mooted in 2012 and was named as a Road of National Significance in the lead up to the 2017 election, they said.
“The current Government moved quickly to cancel this project when it came to power, delaying significant progress for the area.
“National, today (Friday) also reaffirmed its policy to repeal the Auckland Regional Fuel Tax within our first 100 days in office and have committed to no increases in fuel tax or road user charges in our first term.”
They claim Aucklanders will enjoy savings of up to $150 million a year returned to their back pockets.
“Today’s infrastructure announcement is the largest in New Zealand’s history by a wide margin and we are incredibly proud to be part of a team that will deliver what we promise,” they said.
“The reality at this year’s election is simple: if New Zealanders want a Government that will do what it says and invest in our people and our communities, the National Party is the only choice.”
