A step-wise change in public bus services is the number one funding priority in the draft Regional Land Transport Plan for Taranaki (RLTP).
Bus services are the top priority, followed by safety improvements on SH3 and SH3A, further work on the New Plymouth integrated transport framework, upgrades of SH3 intersections and two new commercial vehicle regional safety centres.
The draft RLTP opens for public feedback tomorrow and Taranaki Regional Council invite the community to have its say on whether these priorities are right and on the future of land transport in the region.
Updated every three years, the draft plan will guide the development of the region's land transport system over the next three decades. The draft plan has been shaped by public consultations held in March 2023 and September 2023.
Taranaki Regional councillor and Chair of the Regional Transport Committee, Alan Jamieson, says the RLTP is a crucial document for the region.
"It sets out a framework for our transport planning into the future, and it also sets out which projects we want the Government to fund. One of the questions we’re seeking feedback on is the relative priority of major transport projects. It’s important to get those priorities right and make a compelling case."
The RLTP Focuses on six core areas including integration, economic development, safety, accessibility, resilience and sustainability and aims to lay down a comprehensive framework for future transport planning in the region, he says.
"Our ability to face challenges in the future depends on planning today."
The Regional Transport Committee encourages the community to read the draft plan and submit feedback on any or all areas of interest, he says.
Public consultation will run from Friday, 16 February 2024 until 4pm Saturday, 16 March 2024.
Detailed information and a submission form are available at www.trc.govt.nz/transport2024(external link) or call the Council on 0800 736 222 to request a copy.
Following a hearing in April, the RTLP will be finalised and submitted to Waka Kotahi/NZ Transport Agency, coming into effect on July 1, .