9 Apr 2012

Business group supports motorway network toll

12:44 pm on 9 April 2012

A group representing some Auckland businesses has come out in favour of tolling the region's motorway network to generate the revenue needed for transport projects.

Auckland Council has proposed 10 alternative options as part of its long term plan, including tolling new and existing roads, to help tackle a $10 billion funding gap for projects.

The council's Business Advisory Panel, which includes groups like the Chamber of Commerce, wants a network charge implemented across the motorway system, which it says could raise nearly $750 million a year.

Panel chair and councillor Cameron Brewer says taxes and rates alone will not be enough to pay for Auckland's transport infrastructure.

"In a perfect world we don't want tolls on motorways that our parents and grandparents paid for over the past 50 or 60 years.

"But the reality is, if we want to get on and build the transport and infrastructure that Aucklanders need, we have to do something."

Political group City Vision says the shortfall should be met by the Government.

The transport funding options out for consultation were: general rates, targeted rates, development contributions, tax increment financing, new regional fuel tax and road user charge/diesel levy, tolling new roads, road pricing on existing roads, additional car parking charges, visitor taxes, and an airport departure tax.