Get in touch
- Phone:
- 04 473 7224
- Email:
- info@wecc.org.nz
- Postal Address
- PO Box 1087
Wellington 6140 - Head Office:
- Level 13, NTT Tower, 157 Lambton Quay, Wellington 6011
Wellington Chamber of Commerce Submission
The Chambers of Commerce has been the voice of business in the Wellington region for 161 years since 1856 and advocates policies that reflect the interests of the business community, in both the city and region, and the development of the region’s economy as a whole. The Chambers advocate the views of its members and obtains that view through regularly surveying members. Chamber members have consistently demonstrated support for improving Wellington’s transport network over the years.
The Chambers have been closely following developments to improvements to Wellington’s transport network and has continuously advocated for a more efficient and fit for purpose transport regime, both in the city and in terms of the broader movement of freight and people within the Wellington region.
In our recent survey on the LGWM proposals, 96.86% (more than 600 respondents) agreed that Wellington’s transport system needs further development and investment. While we know that there are many views within our membership, the survey saw that over half, 54%, of respondents favouring Scenario D, with 90% supporting a solution that includes resolving the issues at the Basin Reserve and introducing grade separation.
Scenario D delivers the most benefits, including travel time savings and opportunities to regenerate and develop the city, and builds the infrastructure that Wellington needs to make our transport network work. There is a clear need to fix the current issues that underinvestment and poor planning has created to date, and get it right going forward by planning ahead.
To further understand the support for scenario D, members were asked a range of questions, including the potential benefits to their own businesses, along with other businesses in the region. In total, 642 responses were received. This submission includes a copy of the questionnaire, attached as an Appendix to this submission. Analysis of the responses is also covered in the body of this submission and further information, including direct feedback, are included also as an Appendix.
In summary, this submission supports the following:
This submission will focus on a number of areas, including important issues surrounding economic growth and productivity, road safety and value for money of projects (including funding options).
The Chambers would welcome the opportunity to discuss our submission with the LGWM initiative.
A brief analysis of the responses to the Chambers survey, which offered an opportunity for members to provide some business-related input as to the benefits and costs of each scenario outlined in the LGWM consultation documents, is summarised below. Further information is contained in the appendix, including direct responses. The direct responses provided include constructive feedback, comments that reflect the majority view held by members. All comments are available on request...
Download to read the full submission.