The coalition Government has cancelled the $15 billion Auckland Light Rail proposal as part of its 100-day action plan.
A tunnelled light rail network from Auckland’s city centre to the airport was presented as the preferred option under the previous government.
But transport minister Simeon Brown says costs could have increased to $29.2 billion.
“The previous government committed to building light rail to Mt Roskill within four years of being elected. After six years and over $228 million spent on the project, not a single metre of track has been delivered and congestion has only worsened in the city.
“Scrapping the expensive project is part of the coalition agreements and we have taken swift action. Auckland Light Rail Limited has been instructed to immediately cease work on the project, and to take the necessary steps to wind up the company,” Brown says.
“The Government is committed to delivering infrastructure that will reduce congestion, boost productivity, and create a more reliable and resilient transport network that drives economic growth.
“Our focus is on building a rapid transit network in Auckland, including completion of the City Rail Link, which was started by the last National Government, and starting work on a Northwest Rapid Transit corridor, alongside other projects to deliver reduced congestion for Aucklanders.
“Work is underway on rewriting the Government Policy Statement on land transport which will reflect these priorities,” Brown says.
