Transport Politics: Interim Transport Chief Faces Big Challenge
September 1st, 2010
David Warburton – who is head of a Melbourne consulting firm, has been appointed as interim CEO of the new Auckland Transport Agency. Warburton concedes he faces a stiff challenge sorting out traffic issues in the city and says the new Super City council will need to balance the needs of public transport users and private motorists. He says transport is the most pressing issue the city faces. Warburton holds a doctorate in environmental engineering and is Australia and NZ CEO of infrastructure consulting firm CPG, part of Downer EDI which provides traffic management services among other functions.
He heads a new trans-Auckland agency with more than 1000 employees. His appointment follows a difficult international search for someone to fill the position by the Auckland Transition Agency. Agency executive chairman Mark Ford describes the new chief as “an outstanding candidate for the role.” He adds “his background includes significant infrastructure leadership and he is experienced in working collaboratively with local Govt and other stakeholders.” Warburton says while the city has made some progress on improving traffic flows there is still much to be done. Addressing Auckland’s transport woes will be a “points match” rather than a “knockout punch” and the agency will need to promote a range of choices through the different communities it will serve. He will take up his new job next month with his contract running until June 30, 2012.
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