A plan to move the Wellington region forward - tell us what you think

People in the Wellington region are encouraged to have their say on a plan to help make the region more dynamic, productive and resilient through high quality public transport, new cycleways and some major roading improvements.

Public consultation opens tomorrow (Monday 19 January) on the draft Regional Land Transport Plan.

Fran Wilde, Chair of the Wellington Regional Transport Committee, says the draft Regional Land Transport Plan aims to ensure the region has a more resilient and reliable transport network. "We have a vital national role as the capital city and a crucial geographical position on the northern side of Cook Strait. It's important that we develop transport networks to enable people and freight to move as quickly and efficiently as possible.

"Equally important is a transport network that will meet the needs of growth and won't buckle under pressure. This is fundamental to Wellington region's future, and its vibrancy, productivity and environmental health."

The plan sets out the long-term direction for each of the region's main transport corridors and contains plans for the public transport, roading and freight networks. It also includes every transport project or activity in the region over the next six years along with 16 major improvements the region is recommending for funding. These major projects include 15 minute peak hour train services on the Kāpiti and Hutt Valley lines and double tracking the line between Trentham and Upper Hutt; a Bus Rapid Transit system through central Wellington; a new public transport fares system with one electronic payment for all travel; a new walkway and cycleway along SH2 between Ngauranga and Petone; safety improvements on the Rimutaka Hill road; a second Mt Victoria tunnel; a range of improvements along SH2 between Ngauranga and Upper Hutt; changes to local Kāpiti roads to improve traffic flows to and from the new expressway; a new road from Petone to Grenada.

Fran Wilde says the proposed major projects have been prioritised according to their importance, effectiveness and efficiency. "We'd really like to know what people think about these priorities".

View the plan and make a submission.

Copies of the plan are also available at council offices and main libraries throughout the region.

Submissions close 4pm Friday 20 February 2015.

For media comment, call 021 914 266