Waipā transport strategy moving with the times

New Zealand transport is changing, and Waipā District Council is moving with the times by endorsing consultation for a progressive transport strategy on Tuesday.

“We need more transport options to connect our people with the places they love. It is essential we future proof our transport system to protect against climate change and the extraordinary growth in our district,” says Bryan Hudson, Transport Manager for Waipā District Council.

The strategy underpins the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport which recognises the important role of transport in enhancing well-being and liveability in New Zealand communities. Locals will have the power to choose more sustainable and diverse travel modes in the future to reduce carbon emissions and reliance on private motor vehicles.

To help inform the strategy, current population projections have been translated into transport demand for use in the Waikato Regional Transport Model - a strategic model utilised right across the Waikato. The model assesses where future transport issues will be expected, based on assumptions around how people will choose to travel. It is important that assumptions in the model are monitored regularly to check they continue to be relevant to the way Waipā is growing.
A series of workshops provided input on transport related issues and outcomes to develop the draft Transport Strategy.

“Our iwi partners and local stakeholders helped inform this strategy. We’ve focused on giving the community more of what they already want. We recognise that transport affects everyone, so naturally we’ve put people at the centre of our solution,” says Bryan Hudson

The Strategy is a 30-year plan for 2021-2051. It will be reviewed at least every five years to ensure its relevance with transport policy and community aspirations. The next step for the council is to implement stakeholder and community engagement during the first quarter of 2022.

“The transport strategy is important because it influences future projects we’re delivering to you such as walkways, cycle ways, public transport, safety, freight and roading. Transport affects everyone so I encourage people to have their say when we ask for feedback, says Mr Hudson.

The draft transport strategy can be viewed on the Waipa District Council website here.