The East West Link is a priority project for the long term growth of Auckland and the economic development of New Zealand.
March 2019
The East West Link is one of a number of projects currently being reviewed, to evaluate whether they align with the new priorities and strategic direction set out by the Government Policy Statement on land transport. This re-evaluation is part of the Transport Agency’s overall work to take a fresh look at transport investments across the country. The outcome of the re-evaluation is expected shortly and we expect to be able to make announcements about decisions on this project in the coming months.
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The East West Link is one of the New Zealand Government’s top priority transport projects in Auckland. It is also one of the top priority projects identified in the ‘Auckland Plan’ – the planning guide for the city.
The project aims to:
As the engine room of New Zealand’s industrial and manufacturing economy, the Onehunga-Penrose area is a key piece in the country’s transport network. Many of the largest distribution and logistics facilities are based in the area because it is close to state highways, the rail network, the airport and the port. The area employs approximately 68,000 people and contributes $4.6 billion a year to Auckland’s economy.
However the current transport connections into and through the area are either incomplete or highly congested. This makes it slower and more expensive to move freight and these costs are passed on to customers. It also makes it harder to local residents and businesses to get around. With freight movements expected to double by 2035, it’s important to start building solutions now to address this. The project will provide the necessary infrastructure to unlock the restrictions to growth and support Auckland’s future prosperity.
Exhibit 3: Video showing SH20 underpass.