Wanted: your ideas on high quality public transport in central Wellington

People’s ideas about what a high quality public transport system in central Wellington would look like are being sought as part of a major study being carried out by Greater WellingtonRegional Council, Wellington City Council and the NZ Transport Agency.

The 18-month Wellington Public Transport Spine Study will identify and investigate the merits of various options for a frequent and high quality public transport spine between Wellington Railway Station and Wellington Regional Hospital in Newtown.

Fran Wilde, Chair of Greater Wellington, says the study is part of the Ngauranga to Wellington Airport Transport Corridor Plan and will explore long-term options for different modes, including bus-based and light rail systems. “We’re talking about a system that would be in place in 20 or 30 years time. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for us to come up with a sound and exciting public transport solution for this crucial part of the Wellington regional network and one that will meet the needs of future generations.

“The study area is called the spine because it really is the backbone of our regional public transport network – if this part is working as efficiently as possible, it helps all trips to surrounding and outlying areas.”

Celia Wade-Brown, Mayor of Wellington, says the compact nature of the CBD is one of Wellington's competitive advantages. “Public transport is an important factor in the success of Wellington's downtown for businesses, residents and visitors and good public transport is essential for many students, workers and people of all ages.

"Realising our vision for the future of Wellington relies on encouraging walking, cycling, and public transport usage to help make the city more accessible for all.

"I encourage the public to share their views on what makes high quality public transport work."

“The public transport spine study is an important part of the Ngauranga to Airport Corridor Plan, which will help Wellington identify and implement a range of multi-modal solutions that will improve transport in Wellington for all users,” says NZTA Regional Manager Planning and Investment, Lyndon Hammond.

“We’re keen to hear the public’s views about what quality public transport is and what it may look like in Wellington and this study will help us and our partners to understand the broad range of factors that contribute to a successful public transport scheme,” says Mr Hammond.

Over the next four weeks people will be asked about their current experience of public transport in the central city, what they like about public transport systems in other cities and what they think a frequent, high quality public transport system in central Wellington would look like.

Opinions are being sought through an online questionnaire, surveys of public transport and road users, focus groups and meetings with key stakeholders.

At the same time as local ideas are being sought, the study consultants are also carrying out an international review to find out what’s worked and what hasn’t with public transport systems around the world.

The study will also investigate connections with the wider transport network, including potential changes coming out of the Wellington City Bus Review, and benefits to the economy, the environment and the community.

Over the next 18 months a wide range of options will be identified and investigated, concluding with a shortlist of feasible and affordable options that will be reported to the Regional Transport Committee in early 2013. Public consultation on the shortlisted options will then be carried out to help determine the preferred option to be taken forward.

You can complete the online questionnaire here.

The website will also be updated throughout the study with relevant information.