Transport sector sees dangers in RMA changes
April 30th, 2009
Kiwirail and NZ Transport Agency are warning the Govt’s Resource Management Act changes designed to streamline big projects will cause delays, and could increase costs and derail projects in the national interest. The two transport groups warn the new Govt bill delivers too much power to local authorities which will frustrate and delay major infrastructure projects.
Under the changes, special decision-making powers conferred on big utilities companies under the 1991 Act would be transferred to local authorities. Most of these companies remain in state ownership and argue their ability to make decisions over long-term infrastructure planning are threatened by the changes to the legislation.
KiwiRail is concerned local interests could override the national interest once local authorities are handed the power of veto. This could leave the rail operator with a network which is “unworkable, unsafe and inefficient.” NZ Transport Agency says the bill shifts decision making on the routes and scope of the state highway system away from the agency to local authorities. This potentially pits local needs and priorities against the national interest.
Environment Minister, Nick Smith, claims the Resource Management Act changes are supposed to simplify the existing law and remove planning bottlenecks which have delayed some big projects by years. However, Labour infrastructure spokesman, Shane Jones, says the proposed changes threaten to act as a handbrake on development.
Copyright © Media Information Ltd
NZ Transport Intelligence Briefing
Amalgamated Dairies
Strait Shipping