NZTA seeks feedback for latest plan

The Northern Busway. Photo / Brett Phibbs

The New Zealand Transport Agency is seeking community feedback on the latest design plans for its integrated transport plan on Auckland's North Shore.

The Transport Agency's Northern Corridor Improvements project will provide a new motorway connection to complete the Western Ring Route.

The project plans include a direct connection between the Northern Motorway and an upgraded Upper Harbour Highway, as well as improved local road links, an extension of the Northern Busway, and new walking and cycling paths.

The Transport Agency's Auckland and Northland highways manager Brett Gliddon said, as well as focusing on motorway and road improvements, the project would also commit significant investment to encourage the use of public transport, walking and cycling.

"We're working with Auckland Transport on plans to extend the Northern Busway, so buses can travel further on the network.

"This extension will improve bus trip reliability and provide a more efficient bus network on the North Shore.

"We'd also welcome feedback on our joint plans with Auckland Transport for what could form more than 25 kilometres of a new linked up network of walking and cycling paths through local roads and parks."

Since 2014, the Transport Agency had been working with Auckland Council, Auckland Transport, local boards, iwi, property owners and stakeholders, as well as business associations, to develop the plans for the Northern Corridor project.

The Northern Corridor Improvements project, will be constructed from 2018, and plans are now available on the Transport Agency's website.

Community feedback was welcomed through the online form provided on the website, or by visiting the project team at one of several open days next month.