Civil Contractors New Zealand (CCNZ) appreciates the emphasis on maintenance and renewals in the draft Government Policy Statement on land transport. However, CCNZ warns against the risks of a politicized work program in the long term.
Alan Pollard, CCNZ chief executive, states that the organization eagerly awaited details on the implementation of the new Government's vision for the transport networks. He highlights the challenges contractors faced post-election due to uncertainties in upcoming work programs.
Pollard welcomes the focus on road renewals but clarifies that addressing potholes should not be the primary goal. He emphasizes the importance of properly funding construction and maintenance to minimize network deterioration.
While acknowledging the positives in the proposed land transport program, Pollard points out areas needing further refinement and cautions against increased politicization of the work program.
Pollard concludes by stressing the need for a committed and funded long-term work program to instill confidence in the civil construction industry and encourage investments in personnel and technologies. He urges the government to prioritize a long-term perspective on infrastructure investment and foster innovation in infrastructure financing.