Government funding

As we mentioned earlier, our transport programme could be impacted by government policy and the risk of changes in funding priorities. Our current transport programme based on best practice and the guidance that we’ve received to date, particularly from New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi. Given the level of uncertainty, there is a high risk to the Council’s projected revenue for transport projects arising from uncertainties in how government policy and priorities will translate into funding decisions.

We propose to spend $1.6 billion over 10 years across the entire transport network.

Looking after our existing network of roads and footpaths

With more than 5000 kilometres of roads and footpaths to look after, the Council has a very busy programme of renewals, repairs and replacements for our existing assets.

We propose spending $1 billion on roads, footpaths and road infrastructure renewals and replacements over the next 10 years. This is about 63% of what we’re spending across all of the road network. This covers:

Carriageway renewals (asphalt, chipseal and pavement reconstruction) – $591 million

Transport structures renewals (such as bridges, retaining walls, guardrails, etc.) – $105 million

Renewals of signals, signs and lights – $119 million

Pages Road bridge replacement and area enhancement – $63 million

Footpath and cycleway renewals – $58 million

New footpaths – $20 million

Making it easier and safer for residents to choose how they get around

We want to give people better options for getting around, whether by car, public transport, on foot or on a scooter. We also want to ensure our networks are safe.

Supporting cycling

Getting more people cycling is key to reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, creating healthier communities,

and reducing congestion. The major cycleways and other cycleways are designed to encourage people to ride because they can see it’s a safe, convenient option for getting where they want to go.

We propose spending $199 million on major cycling projects/programmes over the next 10 years including completing:

Nor’West Arc

Northern Line

Wheels to Wings

South Express

We’ll also start working on:

Avon Ōtākaro River Route

Ōpāwaho Heathcote River Route

Southern Lights

Little River Link

A new north-east cycle route

In addition, we have $20 million for other proposed cycle and pedestrian improvements.

Public transport infrastructure

The public transport service for Greater Christchurch is provided by Environment Canterbury. We support the public transport network in Christchurch city by providing infrastructure such as bus stops, shelters and bus lanes.

We propose spending $101 million on new bus infrastructure improvements, including new bus lanes and shelters, intersection changes, and renewals over the next 10 years.