Notice of Meeting: I hereby give notice that an ordinary Meeting of the Regional Transport Committee will be held on:

Transcription

1 1 Notice of Meeting: I hereby give notice that an ordinary Meeting of the Regional Transport Committee will be held on: Date: 11 June 2018 Time: 9.30am Meeting Room: Council Chamber Venue: Waikato Regional Council, 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East VRJ Payne Chief Executive Officer Chairman Deputy Chairman Regional Transport Committee Agenda Cr H Vercoe Cr R Rimmington Members Alternates Waikato Regional Council Cr H Vercoe Cr R Rimmington Hamilton City Council Cr D Macpherson Mayor A King / Cr L Tooman Hauraki District Council Cr T Adams Mayor J Tregidga Matamata Piako District Council Mayor J Barnes Cr J Thomas Otorohanga District Council Mayor M Baxter Cr D Pilkington South Waikato District Council Cr B Machen Mayor J Shattock Taupō District Council Cr A Park Mayor D Trewavas Thames Coromandel District Council Cr S Christie Cr R Simpson / Mayor S Goudie Waikato District Council Cr D Fulton Mayor A Sanson / Cr E Patterson Waipa District Council Cr G Webber Waitomo District Council Mayor B Hanna Cr P Brodie New Zealand Transport Agency P McLean H Boyt Waikato Region Road Policing Manager Inspector M Lynam (Non voting advisor) Quorum Two (2) members, including one (1) from Waikato Regional Council. Tau Bio Democracy Advisor Telephone: tau.bio@waikatoregion.govt.nz Website:

2 2 OBJECTIVE: To undertake the functions as prescribed in the Land Transport Management Act 2003 (LTMA), and to provide a regional forum for the consideration of regionally significant transport matters. To monitor the implementation of the Regional Public Transport Plan outside of Hamilton City. SCOPE OF ACTIVITY: 1. To undertake the statutory requirements of the Land Transport Management Act To prepare the Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) and any variation to the Plan for the approval of Waikato Regional Council 3. To prepare and adopt a policy that determines significance in respect of (a) Variation made to the RLTP; (b) Activities included in the RLTP 4. To review the RLTP during the six month period before the expiry of the third year of the RLTP 5. To provide the Waikato Regional Council with any advice and assistance in relation to its transport responsibilities including promoting the strategic integration of land use and strategic planning. 6. To monitor the implementation of the RLTP. 7. To advocate regional land transport strategic priorities (e.g. road safety), including the development of plans, strategies, and policies as required. 8. To submit on policies, plans, and consultation documents issued by the New Zealand Transport Agency, the Ministry of Transport, regional and territorial local authorities, and other relevant organisations. 9. To engage and collaborate with other regional transport committees on strategic regional and inter regional transport matters through working parties and similar (such as; SH3 working group and SH1/29 ECMT working group) as appropriate. 10. To consider as required advice and recommendations from the Waikato Regional Advisory Group (RAG). 11. To authorise external advisors to comment at committee meetings where considered appropriate. POWER TO ACT: 1. To authorise variations to the RLTP in accordance with the approved RTC significance policy. 2. To advocate on transport related matters by preparing and lodging submissions to government agencies and other relevant organisations. 3. To prepare plans, strategies and policy consistent with identified strategic land transport priorities.

3 3 4. To monitor transport activities of the Waikato Regional Council, Territorial Authorities, NZ Transport Agency and other appropriate organisations to report on progress of the RLTP. 5. To monitor the implementation of the Regional Public Transport Plan, excluding Hamilton City where implementation is delegated to the Hamilton Public Transport Joint Committee (HPTJC). 6. To prepare and approve the Regional Road Safety strategy. POWER TO RECOMMEND: 1. To prepare and recommend the Regional Land Transport Plan. 2. To recommend variations to the RLTP that triggers the RTC significance policy. 3. To recommend new policy or policy amendments in relation to rural public transport.

4 4 Item Table of Contents Page 1 Apologies 2 Confirmation of Agenda 3 Disclosures of Interest 4 Confirmation of Minutes Doc# Minutes of the Regional Transport Committee meeting of 23 April Confirmation of Minutes Doc# Minutes of the Regional Land Transport Plan Deliberations meeting of 25 May Endorsement of the 2018 Update to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Doc# Report to endorse the final 2018 Update to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan for subsequent lodgement and adoption by Waikato Regional Council, as required under the Land Transport Management Act Regional Land Transport Plan Variation Tirau Pedestrian Rail Level Crossing Upgrade Doc# and Report to consider and approve a request from the South Waikato District Council to vary the operative Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan to include a new activity for the construction of the Tirau Pedestrian Rail Level Crossing Upgrade project. 8 KiwiRail Report Auckland City Rail Link Spoil Removal Rail Concept Doc# Report to provide the Committee with a presentation on a concept to use spoil from the Auckland City Rail Loop for rail infrastructure purposes. 9 New Zealand Transport Agency Quarterly Report to 11 June 2018 Doc# Report to the Committee with the New Zealand Transport Agency s Quarterly Report to 11 June Regional Road Safety Monitor Report June 2018 Doc# Attachment Report to provide an update on road safety issues and trends and to keep the Committee informed on regional progress towards the actions outlined in national and regional road safety strategies

5 5 11 Transport Choices Report Doc# and Report to provide the Committee with an update on the Regional Transport Choices work programme and plans. 12 Transport Planning and Projects Report May 2018 Doc# Attachment Report to provide the Committee with an update on current regional transport plans and projects as at 25 May Regional Transport Issues Forum Doc# Report to provide the Committee with an opportunity to raise and discuss regionally significant transport issues in an open forum. 14 Regional Public Transport Projects Update Doc# Report to provide the Committee with an update on the review of the 2015 Waikato Regional Public Transport Plan and other key public transport planning projects. Doc #

6 6 Regional Transport Committee OPEN MINUTES Minutes of a meeting of the Regional Transport Committee held in Council Chambers, Waikato Regional Council, 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East on Monday 23 April 2018 at 9.32am. Waikato Regional Council Hamilton City Council Matamata Piako District Council Otorohanga District Council South Waikato District Council Thames Coromandel District Council Waikato District Council Waipa District Council Waitomo District Council New Zealand Transport Agency Waikato Region Road Policing Manager In Attendance Waipa District Council Present: Cr H Vercoe Cr R Rimmington Cr D Macpherson Mayor J Barnes Mayor M Baxter (until 11.30am) Cr B Machen Cr S Christie (until 10.55am) Cr D Fulton Cr G Webber Cr P Brodie P McLean Inspector M Lynam (Non voting advisor) Cr J Bannon Waikato Regional Council Staff: B McMaster (Team Leader Transport and Infrastructure) M Alderton (Senior Policy Advisor, Transport and Infrastructure) N King (Senior Policy Advisor, Transport and Infrastructure) V Kuo (Senior Policy Advisor, Transport and Infrastructure) J Cox (Democracy Advisor) Doc #

7 Minutes of Regional Transport Committee Meeting 23 April 2018 Apologies Mayor Baxter early departure Cr A Park absence 7 The apologies as noted were accepted. The Chair introduced Mark Tamura the Manager Integration and Infrastructure, who had started at Council 23 April 2018 and replaced Annika Lane. Mark provided a short summary of his background to the Committee. SECTION A: (UNDER DELEGATION FOR THE INFORMATION OF COUNCIL) Confirmation of Agenda (Agenda Item 2) M Lynam moved/p McLean seconded. RTC18/12 THAT the agenda of the meeting of the Regional Transport Committee of 23 April 2018, as circulated, be confirmed as the business for the meeting. The motion was put and carried (RTC18/12) Disclosures of Interest (Agenda Item 3) There were no disclosures of interest. Confirmation of Minutes (Agenda Item #4) Doc # The Chair noted that David Gordon for KiwiRail, would be present at the June meeting of the committee, as he was not available for the April meeting. Cr Macpherson moved/cr Rimmington seconded. RTC18/13 THAT the Minutes of the Regional Transport Committee meeting of 5 March 2018 be received and approved as a true and correct record. The motion was put and carried (RTC18/13) Update on progress with the Draft 2018 Regional Land Transport Plan and draft GPS submission process (Agenda Item #5) Doc # The report provided an update on progress with the Draft 2018 Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan (draft RLTP), which was out for public consultation. The Committee further Doc # Page 2

8 Minutes of Regional Transport Committee Meeting 23 April received an assessment of the recently released draft Government Policy Statement on Land Transport 2018/ /28 (draft GPS) in relation to the draft RLTP, and to endorse the process for preparing an RTC submission on the draft GPS. To speak to the report Senior Policy Advisor (M Alderton), Senior Policy Advisor (N King) and for NZTA (P McLean) were present and responded to questions of the committee. Tabled Document Members were provided with a Summary of the submissions for the 2018 Update to Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan (Doc# ). During questions, answers and related discussion the following points were noted: Members noted that there were aspects of some of the submissions indicated those submitters were wanting a higher ILM weighting rather than the focus on safety. It was felt that for these submissions the Government Policy Statement (GPS) was being used to support their argument. Staff were working through the submissions and the proposed counter arguments for the committee to consider. Members noted that there were 16 submitters who wished to be heard through the hearing process. Support was sought from the committee to determine whether the late submissions would be accepted, as four of them were wanting to be heard through the hearing process. Members confirmed their support and provided a recommendation to the Regional Land Transport Hearing Subcommittee. Cr Rimmington moved/cr Fulton seconded. RTC18/14 THAT the Regional Transport Committee recommend to the RLTP Hearings Committee that the six late submissions are accepted for consideration in the hearings and deliberations process. The motion was put and carried (RTC18/14) Cr Macpherson posed a question to the committee seeking clarification. Hamilton City Council had proposed that Cr Macpherson present the Council submission to the Hearing panel for the RLTP Hearing. Cr Macpherson sought the direction of the Regional Council as to whether that was appropriate or whether a member of staff or another member of council should present the submission. The Chair advised Cr Macpherson that if he were to present the submission to the hearings committee it would be a conflict of interest and he would not be able to participate in the decisions around that submission through the process. Cr Macpherson acknowledged the advice and would work with his council to confirm presenters. Cr Machen noted a request from Cr Park to be replaced on the RLTP Hearings Committee as the member for the South Waikato/Taupo area. Members were advised that this would be dealt with through Council in the same way that the Hearings Committee was appointed and confirmation would be with Cr Machen prior to the first meeting being 30 April NZTA presentation Doc# During questions, answers and related discussion the following points were noted: A member sought clarification over the new activity classes, particularly the rapid transit case. The case looked specifically at Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch and it was felt that there was sufficient reason to support the inclusion of the Waikato. It was noted that the Bay of Plenty had advocated the same sentiment. There was a recognised need for transport to move between rural and metro areas and not just within metro areas. Doc # Page 3

9 Minutes of Regional Transport Committee Meeting 23 April 2018 With respect to the transitional rail activity class, members noted an immediate concern that needed a definite answer. Central Government had confirmed support for a Hamilton to Auckland passenger rail service and the councils required confirmation of the Government funding before the end of May in line with the Long Term Plan discussions. With the movement of rail to the responsibility of NZTA, members noted concern that there was not a process in place for the funding to be confirmed within that timeframe. The concern was that if funding was not confirmed for the councils the matter would not be considered again until the next Long Term Plan in three years time. It was agreed that the NZTA process may not be fit for purpose for this particular matter, but Central Government had confirmed that the passenger rail project was going to happen and NZTA would work towards what was required to make that happen. Members noted that NZTA were committed at a local and national level to the support of passenger rail. It was noted that there were financial constraints on the councils and that these had resulted in the need for the funding assistance rate to be at 75%. There would need to be further discussion between the board and the minister. The GPS Implications for the Waikato RLTP. During questions, answers and related discussion the following points were noted: The new Government Policy Statement (GPS) would be produced in August and would be tweaked with Version 2.0 in The Regional Land Transport Plan would not be revised for another three years. It was appropriate for the Committee to include points around the priorities of the Plan, noting that improvements to the expressway was a key priority. There was concern for all that the implication of the GPS was that the costs would fall to Local Government. It was proposed that the submission look at the FAR rates or other tools to look at how the Committee would collectively address the point. A member noted there was tension on the government for funding across a range activities and there was a limit to what was available. They noted that the submission should include that there was not a focus on coastal shipping as it did not apply to the Waikato. The member noted that priorities such as Piarere should no longer be a priority of the committee and that the gold plated standard that was being applied to roads of significance was over the top and could be better applied elsewhere. A member noted that they wouldn t want to see Piarere come out of the priority list if that meant there were to be no safety improvements to the area. Other members noted their agreement with the statement of support for the Cambridge to Piarere section improvements. Cr Christie out of the meeting 10.44am. 9 The Chair noted that a change of the priorities was not appropriate as the review of the plan had gone out to the public for consultation with the public and the submission to the GPS should support the strategic framework of the region s plan. Members were advised that there were other Regional Transport Committees such as the Bay of Plenty and Taranaki who had shown an interest in the coastal shipping portion of the GPS as Taranaki had a coastal plan in place and the GPS was in support of that plan. Doc # Page 4

10 10 Minutes of Regional Transport Committee Meeting 23 April 2018 Mayor Barnes moved/m Lynam seconded. RTC18/15 1. THAT the report Update on progress with the Draft 2018 Regional Land Transport Plan and draft GPS submission process (Doc # dated 6 April 2018) be received. 2. THAT the Regional Transport Committee endorse the process for preparing a submission on the draft GPS and delegate authority to the Chair of the Regional Transport Committee to approve the final submission. The motion was put and carried (RTC18/15) A late apology was received from Cr T Adams. The apology was accepted by the committee. Regional Land Transport Plan Variation Fletcher Street Level Crossing Pedestrian Upgrade (Agenda Item #6) Doc # The report sought consideration and approval of a request from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) to vary the operative Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan to include a new activity and the construction phase of the Fletcher Street Level Crossing Pedestrian Upgrade project. To speak to the report Senior Policy Advisor (N King) was present and responded to questions of the committee. During questions, answers and related discussion the following points were noted: NZTA and Kiwirail would be paying for the proposed changes to the Fletcher Street Level Crossing. Members noted concern that these decision had to come to the Committee for discussion and decision and proposed that there should be a level of delegation to remove the bureaucracy for minimal approvals. Staff undertook to look at opportunities for streamlining the variation processes. Cr Webber moved/cr Fulton seconded. RTC18/16 1. THAT the report Regional Land Transport Plan Variation Fletcher Street Level Crossing Pedestrian Upgrade (Doc # dated 5 April 2018) be endorsed. 2. THAT the Regional Transport Committee vary the operative Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan to include a new activity and the construction phase for the Fletcher Street Level Crossing Pedestrian Upgrade project. The motion was put and carried (RTC18/16) Cr Christie noted through the Chair her apologies for early departure, and formally left the meeting at 10.55am. Doc # Page 5

11 Minutes of Regional Transport Committee Meeting 23 April 2018 Regional Road Safety Monitor Report (Agenda Item #7) Doc # The report provided an update on road safety issues and trends and to keep the Committee informed on regional progress towards the actions outlined in national and regional road safety strategies. To speak to the report the Acting Manager, Integration and Infrastructure (B McMaster) and Waikato Road Policing Manager (Inspector Lynam) were present and responded to questions of the committee. Tabled Document Letter from Hon Julie Anne Genter Local Government Road Safety Summit 9 April 2018 (Doc# ). During questions, answers and related discussion the following points were noted: A member proposed there was an opportunity for the region through the Mayoral Forum to look at setting up a subcommittee to address bylaws around speed limits. It was proposed that a subcommittee would remove the political decision making that could come with consultative processes. The process proposed was likened to a hearings committee under the Resource Management Act. Members noted agreement that a process that made the application of bylaws across the region would provide consistency. A member noted that a review of the statistics relating to 2017 and the causes of fatalities, speed was attributed to 17% and alcohol 31%, there was sufficient to support speed management, but there also needed to be a focus on inattention. A member noted that the fatality recorded on the bottom of page 35 it should be correctly reflected as Waipa District Council not Matamata Piako District Council. Noting there was a difference in the report recorded fatalities and recent events Inspector Lynam noted that if the cause of death of a driver on the road could be attributed to a medical event or an intentional act these would not be officially included in the fatality list. Inspector Lynam provided an update from a recent Road Policing Managers Conference. He noted the latest proactive measure: o RIDS restraint, impairment, distraction and speed 4 major contributors and police can make biggest difference and impact on prevention of crashes. Members noted that for education around road safety, in the Waikato there were 10 Police Youth Education Officers who worked in the schools and 40% of their work was dedicated to road safety and delivering resource to schools. Beyond that there was no role for Police in the education of drivers or licencing. A member noted that distraction was a concern for pedestrians as it was for drivers. There was more room for education in this area. In response another member noted that within their Council there were staff working in with community groups to provide education and a focus on safety. Mayor Baxter out of the meeting at 11.30am. Cr Webber out of the meeting at 11.30am. 11 Mayor Barnes moved/cr Machen seconded. RTC18/17 THAT the report Road Safety Monitor Report April 2018 (Doc # dated 10 April 2018) be received. The motion was put and carried (RTC18/17) Doc # Page 6

12 Minutes of Regional Transport Committee Meeting 23 April 2018 Regional Public Transport Projects Update (Agenda Item #8) Doc # The report provided an update on the review of the 2015 Waikato Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP) and other key public transport planning projects. To speak to the report the Acting Manager, Integration and Infrastructure (B McMaster) and Senior Policy Advisor (V Kuo) were present and responded to questions of the committee. Cr Webber in the meeting at 11.33am. 12 During questions, answers and related discussion the following points were noted: A member sought follow up on requests to partner with other councils for Public Transport. Staff undertook to follow up with Matamata Piako District Council. Cr Webber moved/cr Fulton seconded. RTC18/18 THAT the report Regional Public Transport Projects Update (Doc # dated 5 April 2018) be received. The motion was put and carried (RTC18/18) Transport Choices Report (Agenda Item #9) Doc # The report provided an update on the Regional Transport Choices work programme and plans. To speak to the report the Acting Manager, Integration and Infrastructure (B McMaster) was present and responded to questions of the committee. During questions, answers and related discussion the following points were noted: A member noted that with new Government Policy Statement indicating money would be put in to public transport, there was an avenue for the Regional Council to reconsider the proposal to increase fares. They noted that with the extra funding the farebox recovery may be more relaxed in the future. It was noted for members that the fare increase had been built in to the Long Term Plan. Cr Webber moved/mayor Barnes seconded. RTC18/19 THAT the report Transport Choices Report (Doc # dated 06 April 2018) be received. The motion was put and carried (RTC18/19) Regional Transport Committee Submission on the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill (Agenda Item #10) Doc # The report sought approval of a submission to the Finance and Expenditure Select Committee on the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill. To speak to the report the Acting Manager, Integration and Infrastructure (B McMaster) was present and responded to questions of the committee. Doc # Page 7

13 13 Minutes of Regional Transport Committee Meeting 23 April 2018 Tabled document Submission to the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill (Doc# ). During questions, answers and related discussion the following points were noted: A member noted that Hamilton City Council would be providing a submission to push for the availability of the Regional Fuel Tax sooner than the 2021 proposed date. Further the submission would seek for the fuel tax not to be a regional tax but a localised tax. The member sought strengthening of the submission to provide clear support for Hamilton City and their submission seeking access to the proposed fuel tax immediately. Members noted their disagreement noting that the Regional Transport Committee submission provided a fair representation of the majority view of the Committee. It was noted for members that the submission had been provided and signed off by the Chair but if it was the will of the Committee, it was possible for an addendum to be provided. Some members noted that the submission did provide support for Hamilton City and the investigation of possibilities and noted their opposition to changing the submission. Cr Fulton moved the staff recommendations and Mayor Barnes seconded the staff recommendations unchanged. Cr Fulton moved/mayor Barnes seconded. 1. THAT the report Regional Transport Committee Submission on the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill (Doc # dated 06 April 2018) be received. 2. THAT the Regional Transport committee approve the submission to the Finance and Expenditure Select Committee on the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill. A member noted concern that a large stakeholder held a different view. For clarification it was noted that Hamilton City Council were seeking the ability for the tax to be able to be charged in council or groups of council areas with no time restriction. Members noted the position of the minister was that the fuel tax would not be considered for anywhere outside of Auckland within the next three years term of Government. Crs Rimmington and Macpherson proposed an amendment to provide an addendum, for the committee to indicate clear support of the Hamilton City Council submission. Cr Rimmington moved/cr Macpherson seconded. 1. THAT the report Regional Transport Committee Submission on the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill (Doc # dated 06 April 2018) be received. 2. THAT the Regional Transport committee approve the submission to the Finance and Expenditure Select Committee on the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill, and provide an addendum noting support for Hamilton City Council and seeking an earlier date for release of the Regional Fuel Tax. Doc # Page 8

14 14 Minutes of Regional Transport Committee Meeting 23 April 2018 In putting the motion a division was called and the results were recorded as: For: Crs Macpherson and Rimmington Against: Crs Brodie, Fulton, Webber, Machen, Vercoe, Mayor Barnes and P McLean The amendment was declared lost. The Chair returned to the original motion. Cr Fulton moved/mayor Barnes seconded. RTC18/20 1. THAT the report Regional Transport Committee Submission on the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill (Doc # dated 06 April 2018) be received. 2. THAT the Regional Transport committee approve the submission to the Finance and Expenditure Select Committee on the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill. The motion was put and carried (RTC18/20) Regional Transport Committee Submission on a Proposal for KiwiRail to become an Approved Organisation (Agenda Item #11) Doc # The report sought approval of a submission to the Minister of Transport, Hon Phil Twyford, on a proposal for KiwiRail to become an approved organisation under the provisions of Section 23 of the Land Transport Management Act Document tabled for members (Doc# ). Cr Rimmington moved/cr Machen seconded. RTC18/21 1. THAT the report Regional Transport Committee Submission on a Proposal for KiwiRail to become an Approved Organisation (Doc # dated 13 April 2018) be received. 2. THAT the Committee approve the submission to the Minister of Transport on the proposal for Kiwirail to become an Approved Organisation. The motion was put and carried (RTC18/21) Regional Transport Issues Forum (Agenda Item #12) Doc # The report provided the Committee an opportunity to raise and discuss regionally significant transport issues in an open forum. During questions, answers and related discussion the following points were noted: Mayor Barnes noted concern with the area of SH29/SH27 at Rangitinuku Road. Down the hill and over the bridge there were double yellow lines, but there was insufficient Doc # Page 9

15 15 Minutes of Regional Transport Committee Meeting 23 April 2018 width on the road to allow for the passing of vehicles that were turning. Rangitinuki Road ran from South Waikato through to Matamata Piako area, and was a road that Google Maps and GPS used to guide access to Hobbiton. Mayor Barnes moved/cr Machen seconded. RTC18/22 THAT the report Regional Transport Issues Forum (Doc # dated 6 April 2018) be received. The motion was put and carried (RTC18/22) Meeting closed at 12.09pm. Doc # Doc # Page 10

16 Update of the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee MINUTES Minutes of a meeting of the 2018 Update of the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee to deliberate on the 2018 Update of the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan held in Council Chambers, Waikato Regional Council, 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East on 25 May 2018 at 9.40am Waikato Regional Council Hamilton City Council East Waikato sub region North Waikato and Waipā/Waitomo/Otorohanga subregion New Zealand Transport Agency Waipā District Council NZ Transport Agency Waikato Regional Council Present: Cr H Vercoe Cr D Macpherson Cr T Adams Cr D Fulton P McLean In attendance Cr J Bannon A Fitzwalter Principal Planner, System Design and Delivery B McMaster (Team Leader, Transport and Infrastructure) M Alderton (Senior Policy Advisor, Transport and Infrastructure) N King (Senior Policy Advisor, Transport and Infrastructure) A Harris (Project Coordinator, Business Support) T Bio (Democracy Advisor) Doc #

17 Minutes of the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee 25 May 2018 Apologies The apologies of South Waikato sub region member Cr B Machen and North Waikato subregion and Waipā/Waitomo/Otorohanga sub region member Cr G Webber were accepted. The Committee noted the attendance of Cr D Fulton in place of Cr G Webber as well as the presence of Cr J Bannon (Waipā District Council). The Chair had granted Cr Bannon speaking rights but not voting rights. The Chair noted he was able to use his casting vote if voting was evenly split. Confirmation of Agenda (Agenda Item 2) Cr Fulton moved/cr Adams seconded 17 RLTP18/02 RESOLVED THAT the agenda of the meeting of the 2018 Update of the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee of 25 May 2018, as circulated, be confirmed as the business for the meeting. The motion was put and carried (RLTP18/02) Disclosures of Interest (Agenda Item 3) There were no disclosures of interest. Minutes of Previous Meeting (Agenda item 4) Doc Cr Macpherson moved/cr Adams seconded RLTP18/03 RESOLVED THAT the Minutes of the 2018 Update of the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee of 30 April 2018 be received and approved as a true and correct record. The motion was put and carried (RLTP18/03) The Chair briefed the members on the history of the events leading up to the deliberations of the 2018 Update to the Regional Land Transport Plan (the Plan). The Chair advised that the whole day had been set aside for Hearings and if need be, would make a resolution to extend the meeting time past 4.00pm. The process for the Plan was explained as follows. After deliberations, the adopted changes would go to the Regional Transport Committee for endorsement; the Regional Transport Committee would then adopt the changes and make the recommendation that Council formally adopt the Plan. Staff gave a briefing on how the Deliberations would run. It was noted that the Committee would work through the submissions on a submitter by submitter basis. One of the key points that staff noted overall from the submissions was the request for strengthened commentary around the draft 2018 Government Policy Statement on Land Transport and Doc # Page 2

18 18 Minutes of the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee 25 May 2018 staff assured the Committee that they were comfortable that the Plan was in line with the Government Policy Statement. Another was to do with dealing with the Waikato Expressway. At this point in time, staff opinion was to retain the current vision and priority regarding the expressway and realign actions as required. The final key point related to the Regional Fuel Tax. Staff stated that there was a Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) amendment Bill that allowed for the exclusion of certain parts of the region. It was a legislative issue and not one that could be addressed in this instance. A member asked why public transport issues were not addressed. Staff advised that the majority, if not all public transport comments were operational in nature for instance issues to do with the services and bus shelters. The staff reminded the Committee that these issues were out of the scope of the Plan and would be forwarded to the Regional Public Transport Plan review team. Summary report to accompany Deliberations Report on draft 2018 Update to 2015 Regional Land Transport Plan (Agenda Item 5) Doc# M Alderton and N King (Senior Policy Advisors, Transport and Infrastructure) presented the Committee with a table of Regionally Significant Activities (Doc# ) and took the Committee through the task of ensuring each activity in the table was in its appropriate prioritised place. Following this, submissions from the Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) Hearings were considered and deliberated on. Confirming the priority of regionally significant activities The objectives of the discussion were to consider the priority of regionally significant activities and confirm any required amendments to the priority of activities resulting from submissions received to the Plan. Additionally, the Committee considered the introduction of any new activities arising from the update of the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) programme following the release of the Transport Agency Investment Proposal (TAIP) and the priority of any new activities that were considered to have regional significance. Staff noted that they would be writing an advocacy letter to NZTA to outline two classes of activities for consideration being: 1. Activities that were sought by the region to progress regional priorities but had been omitted from the investment proposal, and; 2. Activities that had been included in the TAIP but may require enhancement of their profile to elevate the national priority of the activity in keeping with the region s views of significance. Key activities and/or areas of concern were noted as follows; A member expressed their concern as to why Hamilton Southern links had dropped to number 4 in priority. They also noted that the title of the links as Hamilton Southern Links was an incorrect term because the route started from the Waikato District Hospital and ended south of the airport intersection. It was clarified that in the discussion document that was distributed, Hamilton Southern Links sat at number 4 as a priority. NZ Transport Agency informed the Committee that the Cambridge to Piarere route and the State Highway 29 project were to be revaluated along with 15 other projects. Looking at the transport system in its entirety, post revaluation could result in Southern Links prioritised before the Cambridge to Piarere project. After further discussion, the Committee felt that grouping the State Highway 29 Piarere to Te Poi and Doc # Page 3

19 19 Minutes of the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee 25 May 2018 Te Poi to Kaimai Summit projects with the Cambridge to Piarere Expressway extension to become package priority number one satisfied member concerns. It was noted that grouping packages instead of making subset groups meant more flexibility and easier funding decisions. There were several activities identified as new activities that were considered to have regional significance. Members questioned why these activities had not been noted before. The Committee were advised that these new activities arose from NZTA s safety focus. These activities had been included within the priority package table in light of how each sat on a national level. Members were satisfied with where each new activity sat in the package priority table. A member asked why activity number 14 SH 1 Wex LT Benefits Realisation was struck off the Transport Agency Investment Proposal. The advice was that this activity was looking to upgrade State Highway 1 and the start of the Waikato Expressway which did not align with the Waikato Transport Agency Investment Proposal. It was noted that State Highway 39 was always intended to be a temporary highway. NZTA was aware of the concern for safety regarding this highway and was looking to see how this could be addressed. In relation to the Hamilton to Auckland start up passenger rail service, a member stated it should be listed under transitional rail instead of public transport and requested that this be addressed in the advocacy letter. Staff acknowledged this and advised that the advocacy letter would be amended to include this request to NZTA. Members were happy to advocate for the inclusion of the High Productivity Motor Vehicle activities to be returned to the programme. Looking at the State Highway 1N/State Highway 29 I/S Improvement activity, the Committee agreed to bring this activity to the top of the table to sit with the other package activities. Members agreed that the State Highway 25 Coromandel Integrated Improvements, which was a new activity sitting under priority package number 65 would be lifted and included within the safety package. Members agreed that the State Highway 27 South of Matamata Safer Corridor project would be lifted and included with package priority number 36 State Highway 27 Kaihere Safer Corridor. It was noted that package priority number 66 read as 2018 Intersection Capacity Tristam/Collingwood Corridor Upgrade. Members requested that it be changed to Tristram Corridor Upgrade which was accepted. NZTA advised the Committee that package priority number 16, Collaborative Network Management Systems Stage 1, did not make it into the NZTA Investment Proposal and may be something worth highlighting in the Committee s advocacy letter to NZTA. Staff noted this point and agreed to include this activity in the advocacy letter. Doc # Page 4

20 Minutes of the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee 25 May 2018 SUBMISSIONS 20 On the matter of Hamilton City Council, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Matamata Piako District Council, the Committee noted that a suggestion for a temporary roundabout could be included as a recommendation and staff agreed to look into this. The Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of the Taupō District Council, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of the Thames Coromandel District Council, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of the Taranaki Regional Council, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of the Auckland Council, the Committee suggested sending a copy of the business case along with the recommendations. The Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of the Waikato Regional Council, the Committee agreed with the proposed new wording for implementation measure M1 as follows; Regional Transport Committee to advocate for funding for safety and access improvements to the State Highway 1 Cambridge to Piarere corridor, including the State Highway 1/29 intersection. The Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of NZTA, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of KiwiRail, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Tainui Group Holdings, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Waikato Regional Airport & Titanium Park, the Committee noted that Staff would look into the discussion that occurred around allowing the submitters to work with future rail link teams. The Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Waikato District Health Board, the Committee noted that, due to there being no transport committees within the Waikato District Health Board, events such as the RLTP Hearings served as a vehicle for the submitter to address all the concerns relative to the Hearings which produced a large submission. This was acknowledged and the Committee suggested that perhaps working with the submitter via Regional Advisory Group or a similar avenue would provide more information and communication to them. The Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Cycle Action Waikato, the Committee noted that Hamilton City Council would be looking at bike facilities in Rotokauri and this would be included in the response letter to the submitter. The Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of National Road Carriers, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. Doc # Page 5

21 21 Minutes of the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee 25 May 2018 On the matter of Road Transport Association, the Committee noted that there was an opportunity for a conversation if need be, in relation to submission point four. The Committee noted its support for the recommendation. The Committee broke for lunch at 12.28pm. The Committee reconvened at 1.09pm. On the matter of Automobile Association, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of J Swap Contractors Ltd, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Fonterra, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Silver Fern Farms, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Golden Valley Farm the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Thistlehurst Dairy Ltd, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Morrinsville Chamber of Commerce, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Pita Street Development Ltd, the Committee noted that a ferry service already existed in Auckland and staff suggested there may be potential funding for the proposed marine facility for a Coromandel ferry service from Auckland in the future. The Committee acknowledged this and encouraged that communication lines be kept open. The Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Bay Conservation Alliance, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Hayden Woods, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of John Waldmann, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Harry Bradshaw, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of S C Shere, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Steve Southall, the Committee noted that signage could make a big difference if integrated as part of the safety features on the road. The Committee noted its support for the recommendation. Doc # Page 6

22 22 Minutes of the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee 25 May 2018 On the matter of James Hughes, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Dr Timotheus Frank, the Committee noted their support for the recommendation. On the matter of John Lawson, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Mary St George, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Steve Tritt, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. On the matter of Peter Findlay & Associated Ltd, the Committee noted its support for the recommendation. Late submissions The Committee deemed it appropriate to accept the late submission to the 2018 Update of the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Cr Adams moved/cr Fulton seconded RLTP18/04 RESOLVED 1. THAT the report Summary report to accompany Deliberations Report on draft 2018 Update to 2015 Regional Land Transport Plan (Doc , dated 17 May 2018) be received. 2. THAT the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee accepts the late submissions from the following submitters: Peter Findlay & Associates Ltd Auckland Council Thames Coromandel District Council Waikato District Health Board Waikato Regional Airport Ltd and Titanium Park Ltd Bay Conservation Alliance. RECOMMENDED 1. THAT the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee adopt the decisions on submissions in the Deliberations Report, incorporating any amendments made to the report during the deliberations process. i) THAT the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee recommends to the Waikato Regional Transport Committee that the final 2018 Update to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan , incorporating any amendments made to the Plan during the deliberations process, is endorsed by the Waikato Regional Transport Committee for subsequent lodgement with Waikato Regional Council for adoption of the final Plan. The motion was put and carried (RLTP18/04) Doc # Page 7

23 23 Minutes of the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Committee 25 May 2018 The meeting closed at 1.48pm Doc # Doc # Page 8

24 24 Report to Regional Transport Committee Date: 28 May 2018 Author: Authoriser: Subject: Section: Madeleine Alderton, Senior Policy Advisor, Transport and Infrastructure Tracey May, Director Science and Strategy Endorsement of the 2018 Update to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan B (For recommendation to Council) Purpose 1. The purpose of this report is for the Waikato Regional Transport Committee to endorse the final 2018 Update to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan for subsequent lodgement and adoption by Waikato Regional Council, as required under the Land Transport Management Act Staff Recommendation: 1. That the report Endorsement of the 2018 Update to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan (Doc # dated 28 May 2018) be received. 2. That the Waikato Regional Transport Committee endorse the final 2018 Update to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan on the recommendation of the RLTP Hearings Committee; and 3. That the Waikato Regional Transport Committee lodge the final 2018 Update to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan with Waikato Regional Council for formal adoption, as required under the Land Transport Management Act 2003; and 4. That following adoption of the final 2018 Update to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan by Waikato Regional Council, that it be lodged with the NZ Transport Agency by 30 June Background 2. The mid-term update of the 2015 Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan is coming to a conclusion after a comprehensive development process. The draft 2018 Update to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan (draft RLTP) was approved by the Waikato Regional Transport Committee (RTC) on the 5 March 2018 for public consultation. A total of 35 submissions were received on the draft RLTP, including submissions from: territorial authorities key transport partners and stakeholders freight sector primary industry sector other organisations general public.

25 25 3. The RLTP Hearings Committee met on the 30 April 2018 to hear submissions, with 14 submitters opting to come and present their key points in person. The RLTP Hearings Committee then met again on the 25 May 2018 to deliberate on submissions. Key deliberation themes 4. Key deliberation themes included: strong support overall for the draft RLTP with few specific requests for amendments to the draft RLTP aligning the final RLTP with the draft Government Policy Statement on Land Transport 2018/ /28 (GPS), which was released after the draft RLTP was notified for public consultation implications for the regional programme of transport activities from the NZ Transport Agency s draft Transport Agency Investment Proposal (TAIP), which was released after the draft RLTP was notified for public consultation how to deal with inter-regional passenger rail, following the release of the draft GPS how to deal with regional fuel tax, with the recent release of the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill cycling, walking and public health theme submissions issues that cannot be addressed by the RLTP, for example, public transport operational matters. Key deliberation outcomes 5. The RLTP Hearings Committee undertook deliberations on the draft RLTP and at the conclusion of the meeting formally adopted the decisions on submissions in the Deliberations Report, incorporating amendments made to the report during the deliberations process. 6. The RLTP Hearings Committee also made a recommendation to the RTC that the final 2018 Update to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan (attached separately), incorporating amendments made to the Plan during the deliberations process, is endorsed by the RTC for subsequent lodgement with Waikato Regional Council for adoption of the final Plan (the subject of this report). 7. Key changes to the draft RLTP arising from deliberations include: minor changes throughout the document to strengthen consistency with the draft GPS (including changing the previous language around Government policy signals to align with draft GPS priorities and objectives) minor changes to strengthen the policy framework as a result of submitter requests updated regional programme of transport activities to reflect the NZ Transport Agency s TAIP (including bringing new activities into the state highway programme) the Hamilton to Auckland start-up rail service has been included as a significant regional activity and details firmed up in the public transport services activity class aligning the priority ranking of Appendix 9 Significant Activities Table with the package approach in Chapter 4 of the draft RLTP to clearly identify the intention of the region to invest in the SH1/29 inter-regional corridor as the region s first priority, followed by the Southern Links package as the second regional priority an amended Appendix 10 to advocate for key regional activities that have either been omitted from the revised TAIP or where the region s priority activities now have lower national priority and the RLTP Hearings Committee want to see these lifted (supported by submissions on original regional programme) 8. The overall result of the deliberations process on the submissions received on the draft RLTP, is a robust final 2018 update to the 2015 RLTP, which clearly articulates both regional and national priorities, and provides an agile policy framework to uptake future opportunities arising from an evolving central government policy platform.

26 26 Conclusion 9. Having been actively engaged over a two-year period, the RTC is now in a position to conclude the midterm review of the 2015 RLTP. The RLTP Hearings Committee recommend that the RTC endorse the final 2018 Update to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan and lodge the RLTP with Waikato Regional Council for adoption. 10. Following adoption by Waikato Regional Council, the final 2018 Update to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan will be lodged with the NZ Transport Agency by the 30 June 2018 as required. Assessment of Significance 11. Having regard to the decision making provisions in the LGA 2002 and Councils Significance Policy, a decision in accordance with the recommendations is /is not considered to have a high degree of significance.

27 27 Report to Regional Transport Committee Date: 25 May 2018 Author: Authoriser Subject: Section: Nigel King, Senior Policy Advisor, Transport and Infrastructure Tracey May, Director Science and Strategy Regional Land Transport Plan Variation - Tirau Pedestrian Rail Level Crossing Upgrade A (Committee has delegated authority to make decision) Purpose 1. To consider and approve a request from the South Waikato District Council to vary the operative Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan to include a new activity for the construction of the Tirau Pedestrian Rail Level Crossing Upgrade project. Executive Summary 2. The Tirau Pedestrian Rail Level Crossing Upgrade is one of a number of activities included in a programme of level crossings that KiwiRail has been developing with the NZ Transport Agency. 3. The proposal under this variation includes bringing the activity into the operative Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP). This section is funded by KiwiRail, South Waikato District Council and NZTA with some project works having already been completed in this financial year. The request to the programme is for the portion of funding from the 2017/18 NZTA Frontloaded Upgrade Programme. 4. The Regional Advisory Group has considered the variation request and is recommending that the Regional Transport Committee vary the Operative 2015 Regional Land Transport Plan to allow this request. Staff Recommendations: 1. That the report Regional Land Transport Plan Variation - Tirau Pedestrian Rail Level Crossing Upgrade (Doc # dated 25 May 2018) be endorsed. 2. That the Regional Transport Committee vary the operative Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan to include a new activity and the construction phase for the Tirau Pedestrian Rail Level Crossing Upgrade project. Background 5. The Regional Transport Committee s (RTC) Terms of Reference gives the Committee the power (on behalf of Waikato Regional Council) to authorise variations to the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) in accordance with the approved RLTP significance policy. 6. In order for an activity to be included in the RLTP, it must first be endorsed by the RTC. The majority of activities included in the RLTP have been assessed during the development of the three-year plan and have been subject to public consultation. During the operative period of the RLTP, changes to existing

28 28 activities or the introduction of new activities may be proposed by submitting organisations. In these cases, the inclusion of the proposed activity may be assessed against the objectives and priorities of the RLTP, and qualifying activities may be endorsed by the committee. Issue 7. Kiwirail are currently undertaking capital work to install a new pedestrian level crossing in the South Waikato District. 8. The crossing leads from Bridge St in Tīrau, across the railway line and into the Tīrau Domain. In the past there has been no safe way to reach this area on foot from the town since pedestrian access along SH1 was closed. 9. This work is funded through a cost share between KiwiRail, South Waikato District Council and the NZ Transport Agency. 10. The works originally involved construction of a new pedestrian rail crossing platform with an entry-exit maze one half of this platform is fairly substantial due to the height from ground to rail on one side of the track. Following a Kiwirail safety assessment, a requirement was identified to add lights, bells, barrier mechanisms and control equipment, due to a curve in the track and resulting impact on visibility. 11. The full cost of the project is $316,000 split into three portions: $115,000 from the KiwiRail Public Good MOT fund, $46,000 from South Waikato District Council s 2018/19 Low Cost/Low Risk programme and $155,000 from the NZTA Local Roads NZTA Frontloaded Upgrade Programme. Only the funding sought from the NZTA Local Roads NZTA Frontloaded Upgrade Programme will have an impact on the operative RLTP as the KiwiRail component is sourced outside of the National Land Transport Fund and the South Waikato District Council share will be covered in the period. The funding sought from the NZTA Local Roads NZTA Frontloaded Upgrade Programme is funded at 100% FAR and there is no local share component. KiwiRail will invoice South Waikato District Council for the works, who will in turn claim this from NZTA work category 321, New Traffic Management Facilities. 12. The memo from South Waikato District Council outlining additional detail for this variation request is included as an attachment to this report (Attachment 1). Regional Advisory Group Consultation 13. This variation put forward for consideration by the RTC and proposed for inclusion in the RLTP has been reviewed and endorsed by members of the Regional Advisory Group (RAG). A memo regarding the proposed variation was circulated via to all RAG members on 24 May The RAG have considered the merits of this activity and determined that this variation aligns with the objectives and priorities of the RLTP and that the inclusion of this activity will not impact on the delivery of other activities contained in the plan. The variation proposed was assessed according to the significance policy contained in the RLTP and considered to be a minor variation that does not require additional public consultation. Assessment of significance 14. To the best of the writer s knowledge, this decision is not significantly inconsistent with nor is anticipated to have consequences that will be significantly inconsistent with any policy adopted by this local authority or any plan required by the Local Government Act 2002 or any other enactment.

29 29 Conclusion 15. The Regional Transport Committee are asked to approve the Tirau Pedestrian Rail Level Crossing Upgrade activity covered by this report as a variation to be included in the operative Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan The project aligns with the objectives and priorities of the Regional Land Transport Plan and is considered a minor variation under the significance policy and does not require public consultation 17. The variation has been endorsed by the Regional Advisory Group (RAG) for RTC approval. Attachments: 1. A memo from South Waikato District Council outlining the Tirau Pedestrian Rail Level Crossing Upgrade variation request, 23 May 2018 (Doc # )

30 30 Attachment 1: Tirau Pedestrian Rail Level Crossing Upgrade variation request 23 May 2018 (Doc # )

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35 35 Report to Regional Transport Committee Date: 24 May 2018 Author: Authoriser: Subject: Section: Bill McMaster, Team Leader, Transport and Infrastructure Tracey May, Director Science and Strategy KiwiRail Report Auckland City Rail Link Spoil Removal Rail Concept A (Committee has delegated authority to make decision) Purpose 1. For Kiwirail to provide the Regional Transport Committee with a presentation on a concept to use spoil from the Auckland City Rail Loop for rail infrastructure purposes. Executive Summary 2. KiwiRail are investigating the concept of transporting spoil from the Auckland City Rail Loop project to Mercer and Long Swamp for future double tracking of the North Island Main Trunk rail line. 3. Perry Fon Sing, KiwiRail project director CRL and Auckland Network Projects will present the spoil removal concept to the Regional Transport Committee for information. Staff Recommendation: That the report KiwiRail Report Auckland City Rail Link Spoil Removal Rail Concept (Doc # dated 24 May 2018) be received. Background 4. Representatives from KiwiRail are members of the Hamilton to Auckland Transport Connections Working Group (the Working Group) which has been formed by the Regional Transport Committee (RTC) to develop the Hamilton to Auckland Transport Connections Strategic Business Case. 5. At a recent meeting of the Working Group David Gordon, the KiwiRail Group General Manager Investment Planning and Risk provided the Working Group with a presentation on a concept for using spoil from the Auckland City Rail Loop (CRL) for rail infrastructure on the North Island Main Trunk line (NIMT) to Mercer and Long Swamp for future double tracking of the line. 6. The concept involves moving the spoil from the CRL site to a site at Ports of Auckland by road where it will be loaded on to a KiwiRail train and thereafter transported to Mercer/Long Swamp for disposal adjacent to the NIMT for future double tracking of the line along the remaining section of single track. The proposal, if implemented, would reduce significant truck movements in Auckland transporting spoil from the CRL to disposal points. 7. Due to the interest in this item the Chair of the Working Group, Cr Hugh Vercoe invited KiwiRail to present the concept to the Waikato Regional Transport Committee.

36 36 8. Perry Fon Sing, KiwiRail Project Director CRL and Auckland Network Projects, will be in attendance at the RTC meeting and will present the spoil concept to the RTC. Assessment of Significance 9. To the best of the writer s knowledge, this decision is not significantly inconsistent with nor is anticipated to have consequences that will be significantly inconsistent with any policy adopted by this local authority or any plan required by the Local Government Act 2002 or any other enactment. Conclusion 10. The spoil being removed from the Auckland Central Rail Loop project provides an opportunity to use this material for rail infrastructure purposes with a concept for it to be used for double tracking the North Island Main Trunk Rail Line in the Mercer and Long Swamp vicinity which is the only section between Hamilton sand Auckland that remains as a single track. 11. Perry Fon Sing from Kiwirail will present the concept to the Regional Transport Committee for their information.

37 37 Report to Regional Transport Committee Date: 24 May 2018 Author: Authoriser: Bill McMaster, Team Leader, Transport and Infrastructure Tracey May, Director Science and Strategy Subject: New Zealand Transport Agency Quarterly Report to 11 June 2018 Section: A (Committee has delegated authority to make decision) Purpose 1. To provide the Regional Transport Committee with the New Zealand Transport Agency s Quarterly Report to 11 June Executive Summary 2. The New Zealand Transport Agency reports on a regular basis to the Regional Transport Committee to provide the Committee with key information on state highway projects as well as the wider activities of the Agency. This current report will be presented to the Committee at the meeting. Staff Recommendation: That the report New Zealand Transport Agency Quarterly Report to 11 June 2018 (Doc # dated 24 May 2018) be received. Background 3. The New Zealand Transport Agency (the Agency) Waka Kotahi is a New Zealand Crown entity formed in 2008 and responsible for contributing to an affordable, integrated, safe, responsive and sustainable land transport system. The NZ Transport Agency Board is responsible for allocating funds from the National Land Transport Fund to land transport activities, including local roads, state highways, road safety, cycling and public transport. The Agency undertakes work with a number of partners and the Agency Regional Relationship Director is a member of the Regional Transport Committee. The NZ Transport Agency reports to the Regional Transport Committee on a quarterly basis and the Agency Quarterly report to 11 June 2018 is attached as Attachment The report will be presented by the NZ Transport Agency Regional Relationship Director, Parekawhia McLean. Assessment of Significance 5. To the best of the writer s knowledge, this decision is not significantly inconsistent with nor is anticipated to have consequences that will be significantly inconsistent with any policy adopted by this local authority or any plan required by the Local Government Act 2002 or any other enactment. Conclusion 6. The New Zealand Transport Agency Quarterly report to 11 June 2018 provides the Regional Transport Committee with information on the Agency activities over the last quarterly period. This report includes a state highway activities update as well as other activities undertaken by the Agency.

38 38 Attachments 1. New Zealand Transport Agency Quarterly Report to 11 June 2018.

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50 50 Report to Regional Transport Committee Date: 23 May 2018 Author: Rachel Cook, Senior Policy Advisor, Transport and Infrastructure Authoriser: Tracey May, Director Science and Strategy Subject: Regional Road Safety Monitor Report June 2018 Section: A (Committee has delegated authority to make decision) Purpose 1. To provide an update on road safety issues and trends and to keep the Committee informed on regional progress towards the actions outlined in national and regional road safety strategies. Executive Summary 2. Death and serious injury (DSI) crashes continue to rise nationally and although the Waikato region is performing better than the national average when the amount of travel on our network is considered, many of our districts are performing badly both on State Highways and Local Roads. Speed continues to play a significant role in contributing to poor DSI crash outcomes. 3. A regional speed management workshop held on 11 May was well attended and supported. Participants workshopped the purpose, objectives, key activities and priorities the regional plan should deliver on, with the aim of defining the scope of the regional approach. 4. The government is developing a new national road safety strategy and has released a Safer Journeys evaluations. The findings suggest the overarching national governance and safety management approach needs to be strengthened. There are strong opportunities for better outcomes from addressing road infrastructure and speed management., and a range of issue areas were identified including road policing, walking and cycling, safety management and regulation, workplaces, supporting local government and emerging risks. 5. Feedback is being sought from RTC members on key priorities for political advocacy for the new national road safety strategy. Staff Recommendation: That the report Regional Road Safety Monitor Report June 2018 (Doc # dated 23 May 2018) be received. Issue 6. Under the national guidance of the Safer Journeys Strategy and the regional guidance of the Waikato Regional Road Safety Strategy (WRRSS), road safety partners are working collaboratively to reduce deaths and serious injuries on the region s roads.

51 51 National and Regional road safety statistics 7. As at 21 May, 31 people have lost their lives on our regional land transport network, with 153 nationally. Deaths and serious injuries (DSI) continue to follow seasonal trends with more travel and more trauma over the summer months a mix of Q4 and Q1 (Fig 1). Figure 1 Quarterly (Q) count of Deaths and Serious Injuries in the Waikato region between January 2015 and March Source: CAS data, WRC 8. When the volume of travel is accounted for across the region, in the form of DSI per 10 million vehicle kilometres travelled (VKT), many of our districts are over-represented compared to national averages, but as a whole region Waikato is performing better than the national average. As shown in Figure 2, Hauraki, Matamata-Piako, South Waikato, Taupo, Thames-Coromandel and Waitomo Districts are significantly above the national average based on the amount of travel that has occurred within their boundaries. In general, the districts with larger urban centres are performing better and this may be a reflection of slower speeds limits and less state highway length, where we know the majority of DSI are occurring. Figure 2 Number of deaths and serious injuries per 10 million kilometres travelled in Waikato districts, based on the average VKT and average DSI over , with comparison to Waikato region (WRC) and New Zealand. NB WRC refers to Waikato region. Source: CAS data, WRC Speed as a contributing factor to DSI crashes 9. Looking at the past three years, (first quarter), relatively more deaths are occurring than serious injuries on roads posted at the 100km/hr speed limit (Fig 3a, 3b). As expected, in DSI crashes nearly 10 times more deaths occur where the 100km speed limit is exceeded than in 50km zones. Serious injuries are fewer in 100km exceedance crashes, whereas the reverse is true for lower speed limit exceedances.

52 52 Figure 3a Percent of deaths and serious injuries on Waikato region roads where the speed limit was exceeded, January 2015-March Source: CAS data, WRC 10. Over the last three years speed was a contributing factor in in 42% of State Highway DSI crash outcomes and 58% of Local Road crashes. Over the same period alcohol and speed together were contributing factors in 6.26% of State Highway DSI crash outcomes and 3.61% on Local Roads. 11. Six main factors were identified for DSI crashes where speed was a contributing factor across the region (Fig 4). Entering/on a curve was the most significant crash factor for DSI crashes (15%), followed by lost control when turning (9%). Alcohol, or suspected alcohol involvement, combined were the main crash factors for 11% of DSI crashes across the region over the last three years. Figure 4 Six main factors of DSI crashes where speed was a contributing factor, Waikato region January 2015-March Source: CAS data, WRC Please note there is minor variation in the total number of fatalities reported by the Ministry of Transport (MOT) depending on report type and date calculated. Fatality counts may also change once full

53 53 investigations of crashes are completed and the full causes identified. The value of reporting the fatalities is to identify key trends and areas of concern to drive future actions. 12. Details of each of the regional fatalities in the 2018 year to date are summarised in Attachment 1. Speed Management (Action 4.2.1, WRRSS) 13. A regional speed management workshop was held on 11 May and had very good attendance from all but one of Waikato s local authorities, WRC, Police/CVST, NZ Transport Agency, Department of Conservation, RATA, LGNZ/Equip, WDHB, Regional Road Safety Forum (RRS Forum) members including advocacy groups and inter-regional partners from Bay of Plenty and Auckland. 14. Attendees represented the following functions; planning, funding, roading and asset management, political, behaviour change and education, contracts management, project management, policy, and included national, regional and local viewpoints. Although invited, there were no communications and engagement or stakeholder management specialists in attendance. 15. All organisations gave an update on their activities in relation to speed management and participants workshopped the purpose of a regional approach, objectives and key activities and priorities the regional approach should deliver or address. There was clear support for a regional approach and strong interest from interregional partners on integration, the approach taken and any learning to be derived from it. 16. The working group will review the outputs and outcomes of the meeting and this will help to confirm the scope for a regional approach and build the project plan. National Road Safety Strategy Review key issues to inform the Waikato region advocacy position 17. The Government has announced the development of a new national road safety strategy replacing the current Safer Journeys strategy, which ends in As part of the development of the strategy, the Government will investigate adopting the Vision Zero approach to road safety thinking as a long term objective. The strategy will also include consideration of broader harms to health, such as road-related air and noise pollution and physical inactivity. 18. The strategy will include measurable targets, outcomes and performance measures and be developed alongside an action plan that considers interventions from across the road safety system. 19. Strategy development will be led by the Ministry of Transport, in partnership with other agencies, and overseen by a cross-agency National Road Safety Committee and a Ministerial Group focused on road safety. An expert technical advisory group will also be established to support the development of the strategy. The development will incorporate multiple opportunities for collaboration and engagement with stakeholders and the broader public. 20. The indicative strategy development phases1 are: Phase 1: Programme establishment Project planning and governance establishment (underway) Consolidating data on key harms, causes and interventions and international best practice (mid-2018) Phase 2: Vision and framework Stakeholder and public engagement, including workshops (beginning mid-2018) Phase 3: Interventions Develop/model potential interventions, outcomes and targets (2nd half 2018) Phase 4: Finalise strategy and action plan 1 Brent Johnston, Manager Mobility & Safety, Ministry of Transport, presentation to Local Government Road Safety Summit, 09 April.

54 54 Consultation on draft strategy and action plan (1 st half 2019) Finalise strategy and action plan (by September 2019) 21. The Local Government Road Safety Summit on 9 April was an opportunity to inform the development of the national strategy and the Government Position Statement. Feedback from Associate Transport Minister Genter (Attachment 2) identified the following themes: There should be strong and ongoing leadership on road safety from central government, including consideration of the Vision Zero approach to road safety There should be clear government road safety targets and consideration should be given as to whether local government should be tied to any interim targets There was support for increased funding for road safety projects including changing Funding Assistance Rates The processes for accessing funding for road safety improvements should not be unduly onerous and disproportionate to the scale of the project The process for changing local speed limits, including looking at how default speed limits are set, should be simplified and streamlined Road safety should be a whole of government approach and should bring together a wide range of government agencies, all of which should share a consistent view Improving the safety of children and other vulnerable users walking and cycling to school, including an increased use of ebikes, should be a priority There should be increased use of road safety education campaigns, as well as an increased level of on-road enforcement by NZ Police There should be improved access to national data especially for smaller councils which may lack specialist data analysis skills Ensuring consistent national standards for road markings, signage, and road designs. 22. The WRRSS identifies key short term priorities and a number of future opportunities. The RRS Forum have also identified new opportunities and are workshopping priorities at their 30 May meeting. This will be reported back at the 11 June meeting. 23. Opportunities to input into the NRSS review and advocate for regional priorities are being sought and there is a TRAFINZ workshop with MOT and NZTA on 20 June in Wellington. 24. Associate Transport Minister Genter has publicly released an interim evaluation of Safer Journeys from 2015, procured under the previous government 2. Key findings are: While the Safer Journeys framework (introduced in 2010) is sound, since its introduction DSI outcomes plateaued and have then deteriorated. Five areas of high concern and medium concern showed a mix of excellent, good, limited, and insufficient progress, summarised below. 2 Martin Small Consulting Interim Evaluation of Safer Journeys, July Safer-Journeys-Interim-Evaluation-Final.pdf

55 55 Level of Concern Excellent Good Limited Insufficient High Medium - Increase safety of young drivers - Reduce alcohol/drug impaired driving -Achieve safer roads and roadsides - Improve the safety of the light vehicle fleet - Reduce the impact of fatigue and address distraction - Achieve safer speeds - Increase the safety of motorcycling - Improve the safety of heavy vehicles - Achieve safer walking and cycling Key opportunities were identified for improving high risk infrastructure and safer speeds and reducing motorcycle trauma through regulation, controls, licencing and alcohol The overall speed enforcement programme needs major reform and Police enforcement effectiveness at a local level is an ongoing challenge Vehicle safety needs sustained efforts to benefit fully from available technology Walking and cycling requires sustained effort Restraint use and older persons safety was an emerging area of ongoing concern Safety management is patchy and ineffective with strong action not being taken o No strong political champion o The lack of a set of national targets o The Ministry of Transport is not playing a strong enough role o The National Road Safety Committee is not being effective enough o The National Road Safety Management Group needs to be stronger with a more direct road safety leadership role within and between agencies o ACC involvement has not been consistent and there is opportunity for Worksafe to play a larger role o Partner communication, consultation and information exchange is challenging and resource heavy o Investment effectiveness is questioned Looking forward, alongside progressing safe roads and roadsides and safe speeds, four key areas were identified as needing to be substantially addressed; workplaces, local government, safety management and safety regulation. 25. The report makes a range of high level recommendations, many of which address national governance and system management. A comparative analysis of has been carried out against WRRSS and TRAFINZ priorities (Attachment 3) to begin to refine a potential advocacy position for the region. 26. Feedback is being sought from RTC members on key priorities for political advocacy for the new national road safety strategy. New Zealand Police Report 27. Inspector Marcus Lynam, Waikato Road Policing Manager, will provide the RTC with a verbal update on current road safety activities. Conclusion 28. The Waikato region continues to be overrepresented nationally in death and serious injury crash outcomes and speed plays a significant role on the Local and State Highway network. 29. The regional Speed Management working group held a regional workshop to help confirm the scope of the regional approach and the outputs from this will help to develop the project plan.

56 The government is developing a new national road safety strategy for September With the WRRSS and the recent release of the Safer Journeys interim evaluation the region is well placed to confirm it s advocacy position and seek opportunities to feed back to the Ministry of Transport. Assessment of significance 31. To the best of the writer s knowledge, this decision is not significantly inconsistent with nor is anticipated to have consequences that will be significantly inconsistent with any policy adopted by this local authority or any plan required by the Local Government Act 2002 or any other enactment. Attachments 1. Table of Waikato region fatal crashes year to date as at 22 May Letter Hon Julie Anne Genter re LG RS Summit dated 17 April 2018 (Doc # ). 3. National Road Safety Strategy review Key issues review to inform Waikato position (Doc # )..

57 57 Attachment 1: Table of Waikato Region fatal crashes year to date 2018, as at 22 May Fatality no. Date Road/SH/Area Local District Crash Description 1 7/01/2018 SH27 and 500 South of Pohlen Rd, Matamata NZTA, Matamata- Piako DC 2 14/01/2018 Pukekawa, SH22 Waikato DC 3 20/01/2018 Whangamata Road, Kinloch Taupo DC way. SH25 and 3400 South of Boat Harbour Road, 4 24/01/2018 Tairua NZTA, TCDC northbound lane near the centreline. SH2 and 200 East of Waitekauri Rd, NZTA, Hauraki 5 2/02/2018 Waikino DC Sex, fatality type, age Vehicle had been purchased this morning in Auckland. Being driven south with 3 passengers. On a straight section of State Highway the vehicle has left the road on the left onto a metalled area beyond the edge of seal. Driver has over corrected to the right. Once on the tar seal the driver has pulled back left bringing him beyond the left edge line. A further steering input to the right has put the vehicle into a yaw, and the vehicle has Female, crossed both lanes hitting the side of an earth ditch and a post Passenger, aged and rail fence. 38 years A motorcycle travelling south on Highway 22, Pukekawa in convoy with a number of other motorcyclists. The rider failed to negotiate a moderate right bend and lost control, and has driven over the concrete footpath and collided with a mesh and Male, Rider, aged pole fence. 56 years A vehicle travelling north on Whangamata Road has missed the driveway to friends. They have turned around, checked it was clear and headed south, gone around metres where the driver has indicated to turn left into the drive way. The driver has crossed the centre line and heard a bang, not knowing what it was, they have parked in the drive way where they have discovered a motorcyclist had hit the side of their vehicle. The rider has come off the bike and has hit a fence near the drive Southbound vehicle has crossed the centreline into the opposing lane on a straight section of road into the path of the northbound Campervan. A head on collision has occurred in the Westbound vehicle has crossed road centreline at exit of left hand advisory curve. Head on impact has occurred with eastbound vehicle. Impact has occurred in eastbound lane. Male rider, aged 65 years Female, Driver, Aged 35 Years Female, not specified, aged 19 years 6 4/02/2018 Oparure Road, Te Kuiti 7 9/02/2018 Tauhei Rd, Tauhei MPDC 8,9 10/02/ /02/ /02/ /02/2018 SH3 and 850 North of Golf Road, Otorohanga Wharepoa Rd, Kerepihi Mangati Road, Puketotara Mahuta North Road, Mangatarata Waitomo DC Otorohanga DC Hauraki DC Otorohanga DC Hauraki DC Westbound ute has crossed road centreline approximately 120 meters west of a sweeping right curve. Vehicle has crossed centreline and opposing lane and run onto verge. Vehicle has mounted steep bank that skirts verge and rolled crushing roof. Light rain. Westbound vehhicle has lost control on right hand corner, has over corrected and gone into an anti clockwise rotation presenting broadside (drivers side) into a tree situated beyond the westbound lane. Heavy rain. A northbound vehicle has lost control on an easy right bend and clipped the right side of a southbound vehicle. The northbound vehicle has rotated clockwise and entered a broadside slide into a second southbound vehicle. Collision has occurred in the southbound lane. A vehicle travelling west in the eastbound lane has collided with a pedestrian walking west in the eastbound lane. Following the impact, the vehicle has travelled across into the westbound lane, across a grass verge and has come to rest in a roadside drainage ditch. The pedestrian has come to rest in the grass verge off the eastbound lane. Poor riding behaviour, metal surface, nil safety equipment. Quad bike travelling downhill on a single lane, gravel surface. Rider has failed to negotiate a sharp left curve and has gone off the road to the right, through a wooden barrier, tumbling 17 metres down a steep tree-covered bank. Rider and pillion have been thrown from the bike. Quad bike not registered for road use. Westbound motorcycle, single occupant, has travelled over a single lane bridge and failed to take a moderate left bend on the western side of the bridge. The motorcycle has left the road surface travelling down a grass decline and collided with a post and wire fence. Male, driver, aged not specified Female, Driver, aged 35 years Vehicle 1: Male, driver, aged 45 years Vehicle 2: Male, driver, aged 80 years Male, pedestrian, aged 17 years Male, rider, aged 34 years Male Rider, aged 51 years

58 58 Fatality no. Date Road/SH/Area Local District Crash Description 13 24/02/ , 15 28/02/ /03/ /03/2018 Bankier Road, Gordonton Waikato DC SH27 and 1500 North of Number 9 NZTA, Road, Matamata- Morrinsville Piako DC SH3 and 4200 South of Papakauri Road (southern junction), Mahoenui Waitomo DC SH5 and 2380 East of Waiohutu Road, Putaruru NZTA, South Waikato DC Vehicle 1 travelling east bound following vehicle 2 and two tractors and trailers. Both cars have pulled into westbound lane to overtake. Vehicle 2 has pulled back into eastbound lane without overtaking. Vehicle 1 has passed vehicle 2 and one tractor. Lead tractor has turned right into a driveway and impacted with vehicle 1 in westbound lane. Vehicle 1 has come to rest in drain culvert. A camper van travelling south on State Highway 27 has failed to negotiate an easy left hand bend, leaving the road on the right. Vehicle has continued into a shallow drain before hitting a tree and post and wire fence, rotating to rest. Motorcycle has lost control while overtaking. Rider has braked and locked the front wheel causing the bike and rider to fall to the road surface. Both have slid across into the oncoming lane. Rider has been struck by a vehicle and has been run over. A fully laden Cattle Truck and trailer was heading downhill, west along State Highway 5 approaching Waiohutu Road. At the same time a vehicle was travelling east up a passing lane towards the oncoming truck. The vehicle has crossed the centreline directly into the path of the truck colliding head on with it. Sex, fatality type, age Male, driver, aged 22 Male, driver, aged 76 years and female, passenger aged 80 years Male, rider, aged 64 years Female, driver, aged 56 years 18 17/03/ /03/ /30/ ,22 30/03/ /04/ /04/2018 SH5 and 500 South of Homestead Road, Rotorua Tahae Road, Mangakino Tirohanga Rd, Taupo SH1, Desert Road, Rangipo Tuhikaramea Road, Hamilton SH1, 100 north of Karapiro Road Vehicle 1 travelling southbound on SH5 towards Mihi Bridge. Vehicle 2 was northbound. Vehicle 1 crossed the centreline into the path of the vehicle 2 colliding in a partial head on. Vehicle 2 swerved off the road onto the eastern verge coming to a rest. Vehicle 1 rolled several times coming to a rest in the south bound lane approx 100m past the area of impact. The driver of vehicle 1 was ejected from the vehicle and located by the first on scene lying on the roadside. Road Conditions were dry at the NZTA, Rotorua time with good clear visibility. South Waikato DC Taupo DC Taupo DC Hamilton CC Matamata- Piako DC Eastbound vehicle has cut a left bend on a downhill section of gravel road. The left wheel has dropped off the edge of seal into a shallow ditch. The driver has steered right causing the vehicle to enter a clockwise rotation. The vehicle has crossed the roadway, colliding with and penetrating through a post and wire fence, dropping approximately 15 to 20 metres. It landed upside down into the Waipapa River below. The driver has been partially ejected and trapped, submerged under the vehicle. Driver has been driving north on Tirohanga Road and was taking a moderate left hand bend. The driver has lost control of the vehicle, it has crossed the road into the opposite lane then veered sharply back onto the right side of the road before rolling. The vehicle has rolled on the road across the opposite lane and into the grassed water table on the side of the road coming to rest on its side. A truck has come down a small decline and failed to brake in time before crashing into the rear of a car in front of it, the force of the impact has driven the car forward into the rear of the trailer of another truck. A vehicle has crossed the centre line on a gentle right bend resulting in a head-on crash with a light truck. Vehicles have collided right front to right front. Southbound ute has crossed the centre line on a gentle right curve colliding head-on with oncoming B train. Background information for ute driver is a strong indicator for fatigue and drug impairment. No evidence of excessive speed. Male, Driver, aged 21 years Female, driver, aged 28 years Female Driver, aged 55 years Male passenger, Aged 4 years / Male passenger, aged 1 year old Female driver, aged 72 years Male driver, aged 43 years

59 59 Fatality no. Date Road/SH/Area Local District 25 6/04/2018 SH5, West of Webster Rd South Waikato DC 26, 27, 28 19/04/2018 SH25, 1400 West of SH26 NZTA, (Hauraki DC) /04/2018 Smith Street MatamataPiako DC 28/04/2018 Hikuai school road ThamesCoromandel DC 19/05/2018 SH25A KopuHikuai Road NZTA, (ThamesCoromandel DC) 20/05/2018 SH29 and 700 south of Hanga Road NZTA, (MatamataPiako DC) Doc # Crash Description 100 km/h area with temp speed limit of 50 km/h. Vehicle travelling east on SH5, left lane and crashed through a wooden fence on eastbound side of road through 2 further wooden fences, travelling approx. 100 m through a paddock before coming to rest on its wheels. Nil indication of pre- impact brake marks. Vehicle 1 crossed centre line on a gentle right curve on approach to the Kopu Bridge colliding head on with Vehicle 2. Right front to right front impact orientation. Driver of vehicle 1 and both occupants of vehicle 2 deceased at scene. Sex, fatality type, age Female driver, aged 31 years Male driver, aged 20 years, Male driver, aged 66 years, and female passenger, aged 64 years Vehicle heading south on Smith Street at high speed. Vehicle has gone straight through intersection across Station Road into a head-on impact with a solid block pillar about 6 metres from the road edge. Male, driver aged 22 years Wet road conditions, flooding in area. Vehicle has entered a flooded ford crossing, occupant has exited vehicle. Occupant found deceased under vehicle approximately 200 metres Male driver, aged downstream of crossing. 74 years Winding hill road, Inclement weather. Reduced visibility due to patchy fog. Rental vehicle hired 18/5/18 travelling west downhill from summit of Kopu-Hikuai Road. Driver lost control entering a moderate right hand bend, vehicle rotated clockwise impacting with an East bound vehicle in a T-Bone configuration. Male passenger, aged 24 years Motorcycle rider in a group crossed centreline near Kaimai range summit into path of oncoming vehicle. Despite there being two lanes for East bound vehicles travelling toward Tauranga the rider has crossed the double yellow lines. One vehicle took evasive manoeuvres to avoid a head on collision but the second did not. The Motorcycle has struck the west Male rider, aged bound vehicle head on. 58 years

60 60 Attachment 2: Letter from Hon Julie Anne Genter dated 17 April 2018, response to the Local Government Road Safety Summit 9 April 2018

61 61

62 62 Attachment 3: National Road Safety Strategy review Key issues review to inform Waikato position. This will be circulated post agenda, following the 30 May Regional Road Safety Forum workshopping of issues.

63 63 Report to Regional Transport Committee Date: 23 May 2018 Author: Authoriser: Subject: Section: Rachel Cook, Senior Policy Advisor, Transport and Infrastructure Haven Walsh, Policy Advisor, Policy Implementation Tracey May, Director Science and Strategy Transport Choices Report A (Committee has delegated authority to make decision) Purpose 1. To provide the Regional Transport Committee with an update on the Regional Transport Choices work programme and plans. Executive Summary 2. Regional partners are progressing three key regional projects to support growing cycling across the region the Hamilton to Cambridge Cycle Connection, the Regional Cycle Safety Implementation Plan and regional cycle trails business case. 3. The Cambridge to Hamilton Cycle Connection is being progressed in four sections with funding confirmed for the first NZTA section. Funding for the three local authorities is subject to confirmation in their respective long term plans. 4. A Bikes in Schools delivery plan for Waikato region schools has been developed and funding is being sought from a range of partners. A cycle safety skills development framework is in development to support local delivery across the region. 5. The regional Cycle Trails Business Case is progressing and has received general support from key stakeholders with three key tranches of work identified; enhance and extend the trails, grow service providers and develop capability and capacity. 6. The South Waikato research study to inform access and mobility work has recently concluded, and outcomes and recommendations are being incorporated into the review of the Regional Public Transport Plan in particular. Staff Recommendation: That the report Transport Choices Report (Doc # dated 23 May 2018) be received. Background 7. Providing urban and rural communities with access to affordable and safe transport choices is a regional priority which is outlined in the operative Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) This priority concerns the ability of people to independently access key social and economic services and to participate in activities in society regardless of where they live within the region. There are a number of

64 64 transport responses that can enhance access and mobility outcomes and some of these are being considered by the Waikato Regional Council (WRC) as part of its Transport Choices programme. Regional Cycling Programme Implementation Hamilton to Cambridge Cycle Connection 9. The Hamilton to Cambridge Cycle Connection is the last link in providing a continuous cycling and walking route from Karapiro to Ngaruawahia and is being delivered in four sections. NZ Transport Agency and Waipa District Council plan to begin construction on parts of the route in Section 1 (NZ Transport Agency) Funding has been confirmed for the NZ Transport Agency to build the first section of the 20km path. Documentation is being finalised to clarify the fine details of the route between SH21 and Porritt s Gully, and for the construction of the shared cycle path of that section of the route. All going well, construction on this section will be underway in summer. Section 2 (Waipa District Council) Design work is making good progress and work to support the consent applications is underway with detailed stakeholder engagement. The project team have been working closely with landowners on route and property requirements. Section 3 (Waikato District Council) Work to support property purchase is underway and route alignment is being finalised. LTP submissions have been received. Section 4 (Hamilton City Council) A key section of the route is being worked through with residents and interest groups and a decision will be finalised in September. Te Awa are working with stakeholders, property owners and Councils along the proposed route and public enquiries on the Te Awa component of the route. 10. Funding for the three local authorities is subject to confirmation in their respective long term plans. Regional Cycle Safety Implementation Plan 11. Development of the plan continues with Waikato Regional Council partnering with Sport Waikato. The plan will identify inter-linked and coordinated work streams and investment priorities for cycle safety in the region across four main activity areas creating access to bikes for children, delivering cycle skills, linking to safe places to ride and growing safety awareness of cycling. Stakeholder engagement is underway and engagement with councils, police and other agencies will increase over the coming months. 12. Bikes in Schools enabling more children across the region to regularly ride a bike on an equal basis within schools. The scope of this programme has been developed and seeks to deliver Bikes in Schools to 15 schools per year for the next three years with an investment of $1.05 million per year in total. In all this will benefit 4,370 children across the region, improving outcomes for health, fitness and educational focus through opportunities to exercise and improving cycle confidence and skills. Cofunding and in-kind support from a range of partners is being sought, supported by NZTA/ACC funding of $17,000 per school against an estimated $60-70,000 cost per school. (Attachment 1). 13. Cycle safety skills development education and training programmes aimed at improving individuals (all ages) cycle safety and cycling skills. This work is focused on regional coordination to support local delivery of the national cycle education system Bike Ready. This part of the plan will also identify gaps not covered by Bike Ready and develop a regional response to this. 14. Safer cycling networks a collaborative approach to the provision of safer cycling infrastructure with a focus on the identification and promotion of safer cycling routes to schools and workplaces in urban locations and safe rides in a rural setting. 15. Raising awareness a review of current and past education initiatives aimed at improving cycle safety and opportunities to share communication.

65 65 Regional Cycle Trails Update 16. Two business case workshops have now been held with key stakeholders, and there is general agreement with the direction of the strategic case component of this. 17. The draft business case identifies three key tranches of work; Enhance and extend the trails, grow service providers and develop capability and capacity. Stakeholders have mapped potential activities over a year timeframe against each tranche and this is being further developed. 18. Hauraki Rail Trail have confirmed $3.8 million of MBIE NZ Cycle Trails funding for extending the trail to Matamata, and other trails continue to finalise business cases for their planned short term developments. South Waikato Access and Mobility study 19. The Regional Programme Business Case for Access and Mobility aims to inform decisions on where to invest to improve the access to essential services and mobility (transport options) for Waikato people. 20. To inform the business case WRC has worked on a research project with Traffic Design Group (contracted consultant), the University of Waikato and Community Waikato to gather evidence on how Access and Mobility effects people s wellbeing. South Waikato District was used as a case study area. 21. The project aims were to make conclusions on the link between wellbeing and transport policy in the Waikato region: 1. to inform regional strategic planning, by providing evidence linking investment in public transport to wellbeing outcomes for individuals, communities and the region. 2. to provide evidence of where investment in transport and accessibility (more broadly than public transport) can improve wellbeing of people of greatest need. 22. Bridget Burdett from Stantec (formerly Traffic Design Group) will present relevant outcomes and recommendations of the report to the Regional Public Transport Plan review workshop following this RTC meeting. Conclusion 23. Collaborative work continues with regional partners to implement components of the Regional Cycling Programme Business Case and to address capacity and capability constraints. 24. Landowners adjacent to the proposed Hamilton to Cambridge Cycle Connection are being consulted with, and NZTA and Waipa District Council plan to begin construction on parts of the route in Work is progressing on the Regional Cycle Safety Implementation Plan with Bikes in Schools and Cycle Skills delivery key components. 26. A regional business case and business plan is in development for a fully realised cycle trail network and the requirements to leverage the benefits of the trails locally and regionally. 27. Work will now progress in the access and mobility area to build upon the outcomes and recommendations of the South Waikato research study, to inform the access and mobility programme business case, and the review of the Regional Public Transport Plan. Assessment of significance 28. To the best of the writer s knowledge, this decision is not significantly inconsistent with nor is anticipated to have consequences that will be significantly inconsistent with any policy adopted by this local authority or any plan required by the Local Government Act 2002 or any other enactment.

66 66 Attachments 1. Waikato Region: Bikes in Schools Strategy_2018 (Doc # )

67 67 WAIKATO REGIONAL BIKES IN SCHOOLS PLAN Bikes in Schools is a national initiative of the Bike On New Zealand Charitable Trust. Vision: regular and equal access to a bike and bike tracks within school for All New Zealand children. Over the last 20 years there has been a dramatic fall in biking by New Zealand primary school children. Regional leadership of implementation programs has proven very successful elsewhere in New Zealand. An investment in our Tamariki, Community, Economy and the Future of New Zealand - for the joy of biking. For more information visit

68 68 BIKES IN SCHOOLS WAIKATO THE OPPORTUNITY Despite the Waikato s unique and often leading position across all forms of cycling and significant investment in cycle trails, the region is noticeably lagging other regions in New Zealand in regards to the number of Bikes in Schools projects. 5/237 5/102 $2.4 million $17K Waikato Schools (currently have Bikes in Schools) Schools in the waikato with Bikes in Schools Available nationally (over 4 years) to support the national cycling education system Avaliable per school to introduce bikes in schools via NZTA and ACC BIKES IN SCHOOL PARTNERS Nationally many partners have worked together at a Regional level to successfully guide implementation. Regional Councils funding grants to enable a planned program for Bikes in Schools and Cycle Safety programs. Local Councils grants to create enduring community recreational opportunities and allowing local implementation. Regional Organisations including Sports, Transport, Health and Road Safety Organisations coordinating cycle skills training. NZTA and ACC developing a National Cycle Education program, annual funding through the Bike On New Zealand Charitable Trust. The Ministry of Education is providing land for schools to build cycle tracks and have amended policy so that up to 50% of cycle track costs are possibly funded from school capital funding budgets. Cycling New Zealand delivers a program to increase community participation in cycling. Funders, Sponsors and Philanthropic Partners are working together to guide regional funding programs. Schools are putting their hands up to engage and deliver the concept, fundraising a portion for delivery. BIKES IN SCHOOLS PACKAGE Fleet of new bikes in four different sizes Bike helmet for every child Tracks a combination of pump and skill tracks Storage facilities Skills Training introduction to basic riding and safety skills All equipment including storage is owned by the school and remain on school grounds

69 BIKES IN SCHOOLS IMPROVES: 69 Confidence and self-esteem Health and wellbeing Concentration in the classroom Ability to self-manage risk Understanding of environmentally friendly transportation School attractiveness as a place to learn Family biking Community school interactions Profiling success The impact of Bikes in Schools is both immediate and measurable. Regular access to and the riding of a bike goes from approximately 30% of the pupils in a school to 100% of the pupils. Cambridge Primary School has recently installed a Bikes in Schools track The program helps overcome barriers and equity issues, creating opportunities and support for entire schools, not just individuals. Mike Pettit Cambridge Primary School The availability of bikes and tracks in the school and supporting education program will ensure each child is taught to ride a bike in a safe environment from the time they start school (PNCC, 2016, p. 1). This provides a significant foundation of skills, knowledge and understanding for children which are transferable and applicable in adulthood and can be expected to contribute to the students being better and safer car drivers (Bike On NZ, n.d., p. 1). Children are opened to the idea of biking for fun and recreation, biking for transport and biking as a sport. From basic skills to learning road rules, Stuart Bell (Bike Northland cycling coordinator) says the aim is to get as many kids as possible enjoying cycling in a safe environment (as cited in Newlove, 2016, p.1).

70 70 GROWING THE WAIKATO PROGRAM Uniting organisations whose objectives align with the Bikes in Schools program will enable effective delivery and sustainability. Cycling NZ s program to increase community participation in cycling, Waikato Regional Council - Cycling Program Business case identifies that some people lack cycling skills, so they miss out on transport, exercise and recreational opportunities; and cycling is not seen as desirable by all cultures, ages and genders, leading to skewed participation levels. The activity programme to address the key issues for the region includes; more cycling skills training, increased access to bikes and more and better cycling infrastructure. Sport Waikato s initiatives to grow participation in sport, recreation and physical activity. Notably Energizer which already has established relationships with schools. NZTA and ACC provide substantial funding opportunities for investment in the program which Waikato organisations should optimise. Project PLan 15 SCHOOLS 4,370 KIDS PER YEAR FOR 3 YEARS $1,050K PER YEAR TOTAL NZTA ACC 17K PER SCHOOL