Push for targeted national funding for Christchurch transport

The Draft Government Policy Statement (GPS) on Land Transport 2021 has won general Christchurch City Council support but concerns remain over the level of funding for local projects.

The Council approved a proposed draft submission on the government policy statement at a meeting today. The Council submission seeks greater recognition by central government transport funding policy of Christchurch’s transport needs over the next three years.

The GPS sets out a 10-year investment strategy, providing “guidance on how around $4.5 billion should be spent through the National Land Transport Fund each year”.  It also provides directions for a further $1.5 billion annually through local government investment.

A staff report to the Council highlights the GPS focus on North Island transport projects, particularly in Auckland and Wellington and for rail.

Council Urban Development and Transport Committee Chairperson Mike Davidson says sustainable transport options remain core to the city’s future development, and targeted funding is crucial.

“Our submission seeks collaboration between the Government and Greater Christchurch councils on the public transport futures investment programme, and a greater focus on sustainable transport options,” Cr Davidson says.

“We also want more commitment from the Government to working in tandem with Christchurch to ensure our transport needs are met in order to support the economic development of our city.

“The importance of clear priorities and transparent funding targets is paramount as Christchurch moves towards a post-COVID-19 recovery period.

“The GPS needs to show exactly how funding will be targeted.”

Council staff believe the “overarching direction” in the GPS is consistent with the Council’s strategic priorities. However, the proposed changes will “better support” Council outcomes.

“The extent to which funding will be available to support the significant change sought by the Greater Christchurch public transport futures work is unclear,” the Council submission says.

The submission seeks a greater Government commitment “to working in partnership with local government to develop and implement” work projects.

It highlights the need for more collaboration, and a focus on sustainable transport options.

It proposes that better freight connections not be a “stand-alone strategic priority”, and underlines the importance of including travel demand management initiatives.

Final submissions on the GPS are due by 5pm on Monday, 11 May.