12/03/2024
Attention Manawatū Members: The Horizon Regional Councils’ Regional Transport Plan (RTP) is currently open for submissions.
We have a concern that Palmerston North’s Freight Ring Road has been downgraded to third priority in the plan. The Ring Road is a key component of the Palmerston North Integrated Transport Initiative (PNITI). It’s essential for improving the efficiency and safety of freight movements in and out of the city. The Ring Road is also integral to the planned Te Utanganui Central NZ Logistics Hub.
Third priority behind a slip repair at SH 1 - Utiku and a pedestrian bridge over the Manawatū River at the Manawatū Gorge is not consistent. These projects are important, but should not take precedence over the Ring Road, which has much higher strategic value and impact.
We also note that the current ranking is not consistent with the draft Government Policy Statement (GPS) for land transport, which has signalled a system shift towards Economic Growth and Productivity; Increased maintenance and resilience; Safety; and Value for money.
We urge the RTC to reconsider their priorities and restore the Freight Ring Road to the top of its priority list. Horizons Regional Council should revisit its alignment to the GPS, including by prioritising the Freight Ring Road.
Business Central will be submitting on this issue for our Manawatū members. Deadline for submissions to the Council is 5pm, Friday 15 March 2024.
Help us improve the way people and products move across the Horizons Region.