Summarised by Centrist
The government has announced major changes to Auckland Transport (AT), giving Mayor Wayne Brown much of what he’s been pushing for.
The overhaul dismantles AT in its current form and establishes a statutory Auckland Regional Transport Committee to develop a 30-year Integrated Transport Plan (ITP). Key transport policy and planning powers will return to Auckland Council.
“This change ensures transport policies have democratic legitimacy and accountability,” said Transport Minister Simeon Brown.
The reforms aim to align Auckland’s transport governance with other regional councils. Auckland Transport will retain a board, with half its members appointed by central government and the other half by Auckland Council.
One unexpected change designates Auckland Council as the Road Controlling Authority, overseeing road infrastructure decisions like speed limits, parking, and cycleways. The move stems from Brown’s belief that AT’s initiatives lacked public support.
Local Boards will gain greater say over issues like speed limits and pedestrian crossings. Critics warn this could result in inconsistent policies across regions, with communities funding cycleways and crossings themselves.
Brown clarified, “If the council and local boards want to spend money on those types of things which frustrate motorists, they’ll be held accountable by the people in their communities.”
