Bay of Plenty Regional Council is accepting submissions on its proposed regional land transport strategy (2011-2041).

The strategy takes a long-term view of the issues facing the region’s transport system and sets a direction for the next 30 years. 

It will influence how the region’s transport funding is used and provides direction to the regional, city and district councils and the NZ Transport Agency.

The council’s regional transport committee chair, Jane Nees, says the committee is keen to hear if the proposed strategy aligns with what people think the direction for transport planning and investment in the region should be.

“This strategy has a very strong and on-going focus on economic growth and the productivity of the national and regional economy, and one of the key challenges highlighted in it is to improve access to the Port of Tauranga,” says Jane.

“For the Eastern Bay of Plenty, the strategy looks at improving route security because natural hazards in the area can have major impacts on peoples’ lives and the productive sectors.

“Underpinning the strategy is the need for environmental sustainability and ensuring our transport investments represent value for money.”

Improving the region’s road safety record is another concern addressed in the proposed strategy.

Taking its lead from the national Safer Journeys document, it focuses on implementing the national approach, while targeting major road safety risk factors in the Bay of Plenty.

The proposed strategy can be viewed at www.boprc.govt.nz or acquired by calling 0800 884 880, or by emailing transport@boprc.govt.nz and requesting a copy.

Submissions close at 4pm on Friday, July 1.