The Infrastructure Commission’s official advice reveals that the government is considering allocating 10 percent of its total budget for new infrastructure over the next 25 years to a single roading project. The proposed “Accelerating Northland Expressway” aims to create a four-lane expressway between Auckland and Whangārei, as part of the Roads of National Significance program.
The advice, sent to Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop for feedback to Transport Minister Simeon Brown, warns about the potential risks and uncertainties associated with the project. It highlights concerns that prioritizing speed over other considerations may not lead to the desired outcomes.
In July, Brown announced plans to expedite the construction of the expressway, combining multiple roading projects into one mega-project to be developed through a public-private partnership. The exact cost of the project is yet to be determined, with an investment case scheduled for Cabinet review later this year.
The commission’s advice also emphasizes the importance of transparency regarding cost estimates and the challenges posed by the difficult terrain the expressway will traverse. It raises the possibility of costs exceeding initial estimates by 50-100 percent due to the project’s complexity.
Despite concerns raised by critics, Brown remains committed to the four-lane highway and is currently engaging with firms interested in delivering the project. Meanwhile, 350 Aotearoa campaigner Adam Currie questions the government’s allocation of such a significant portion of the budget to one motorway project, suggesting that funds could be better utilized for other infrastructure needs.
Ultimately, the debate surrounding the “Accelerating Northland Expressway” underscores the need for careful consideration and transparency in infrastructure planning to ensure that public funds are allocated effectively and in alignment with broader societal needs.
