Is the Government pushing an anti-car agenda with its new proposal?

In what looks to be another anti-car move by the New Zealand Government, Minister of Transport Michael Wood is proposing changes to legislation to make it easier for local authorities to make changes to our roads in favour of public transport, active travel and the creation of public spaces.

If the legislation changes were to be made, figures like local councils would have increased power to change street layouts, restricting certain vehicles, and establishing “Community Streets” and “School Streets”, among other changes.

Local authorities will also have the power to reduce speed limits as part of pilots and trial Traffic Control Devices (TDCs) “more effectively”.

An example extracted from the list of proposals states the changes will “Enable RCAs (Road Controlling Authorities) to restrict or prohibit the use of some or all motor vehicles on specified roadways to support public transport use, active travel, health and safety, emissions reductions, and/or to create public spaces that promote community well-being.”

National’s Transport spokesperson Simeon Brown commented on the matter saying, “These proposals are radical and take road users out of the picture.”

“People have a right to access their home with a vehicle, but that right could be in jeopardy when local road controlling powers are given absolute authority without having to go through suitable consultation.”

Consultations regarding the proposed changes have been open to the public on Waka Kotahi’s website since Tuesday 9 August 2022 and will close at midnight on Monday 19 September 2022.