Call for public transport on Manukau Harbour bridge

By STUART DYE, transport reporter

Auckland City Council is urging Transit New Zealand to make public transport options a part of plans for a new bridge over Manukau Harbour.

The road builder is finalising plans for a new crossing to replace the old Mangere Bridge.

The council's transport committee says Transit has included pedestrian, cycle and recreational facilities in its proposed options, but the committee wants passenger transport to be considered too.

As well, the development of Onehunga must be considered, said Greg McKeown, chairman of the transport committee.

"We need to ensure timely development of the State Highway 20 southwestern corridor, but at the same time take into good account the community's needs and character, ensuring integration of the development and timely completion of a vital link in the city's transport network."

The Manukau Harbour Crossing is a key component of the Western Ring Route which will link SH20 to the Northwestern Motorway and the Upper Harbour Motorway and to SH1 at Manukau.

The Western Ring Route will allow traffic to bypass the existing motorway system through the central city area and across the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

Transit prefers an additional motorway bridge, possibly with bus lanes, next to the existing bridge, which would then become a dedicated cycle and walkway.

Public transport lobby groups want a rail option kept open to realise dreams of a train service to the airport.

Investigations are ongoing.

The SH20 project will be reviewed under the new Land Transport Management Act 2003.