Jane Nees BOP Regional Councillor www.janenees.co.nz

Over the last year, the Bay of Plenty Regional Transport Committee has been working on a draft Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Strategy 2011– 2041 to replace the current strategy. The aim is to set a direction that will support the growth of our economy and improve road safety, while recognising the need for environmental sustainability and ensuring our transport investments represent value for money. The strategy determines how the region's transport funding is allocated and influences transport planning by the local councils and the NZTA.

The Regional Transport Committee has established a regional vision of: Best transport systems for a growing economy and a safe and vibrant Bay lifestyle.

The proposed Regional Land Transport Strategy identifies six strategic outcomes for the region that take into account key economic, social and environmental drivers:

• Economic Development – the transport system is integrated with well planned development, enabling the efficient and reliable movement of people and goods across the region. The transport system supports economic development by providing users options, applying efficient pricing mechanisms and prioritising higher value trips.
• Environmental Sustainability – the transport system is flexible, robust and resilient to external influences. People choose the best way to travel to improve energy efficiency and reduce reliance on non-renewable resources. Political leadership and support is shown at all levels supporting funding for the infrastructure required for all modes to be safe and easy ways to travel.
• Land Use and Transport Integration – long-term planning ensures that transport corridors are protected and well designed transport infrastructure supports economic development. Regional growth patterns and urban form reduce travel demand, support public transport and encourage walking and cycling.
• Safety and Personal Security – deaths and serious injuries on the region's roads are reduced. People understand and contribute to a safety culture that is supported by a safe system approach to road safety. Transport corridors and public spaces are safe and secure environments to use and people feel safe using them.
• Access and Mobility – communities have access to a reliable transport system that provides them with a range of travel choices to meet their social, economic, health and cultural needs.
• Public Health – the transport system minimises the health damaging effects of transport for all members of society. A wider choice of transport options allows all individuals to make social connections and travel choices that contribute to their health and wellbeing.

The strategy is out for consultation until July 1, 2011 and can be found on the Bay of Plenty Regional Council website visit www.boprc.govt.nz
The Regional Transport Committee, of which I am chair, is very keen to receive comments on the proposed strategy. So check it out, and send in your submission.

If you have views about this or any other issue, please email neesj@xtra.co.nz