Transport key for regional council

The regional council has ‘put runs on the board’ in several critical areas, says its chairman Mike Lee.

But it is clear its focus remains heavily slanted toward improving transportation throughout the region – especially rail services.

"We welcomed the Government’s decision to enable the ARC group and OnTrack to electrify the Auckland rail network with fast, clean, quiet new trains, says Mr Lee.

The proposed regional fuel tax will enable the ARC to fund its subsidiary Auckland Regional Transport Authority to purchase electric trains and increase train, bus and ferry services across the region.

Total income for the council was $229.1 million.

Fifty-five percent – $126 million – came from regional rates and a fifth from subsidiary Auckland Regional Holdings.

The remainder came from service fees, grants and facilities income.

- © Fairfax NZ News