Everyone should feel safe and confident getting around, no matter whether they drive, walk, ride a bike or take the bus.

I support practical fixes that improve traffic flow, reduce dangerous delays at key intersections, and make it easier for drivers to get where they need to go, especially during peak times. That means better signal timing, smarter lane design, and clearer signage.

At the same time, I back building our missing footpaths, safe and direct bike routes, and more reliable public transport, so people have real choices when they have somewhere to go.

A more balanced transport network benefits everyone, including working families and freight operators – and even tradies, who will be able to spend more time on the job and less time backed up in traffic.

I support low-cost, low-risk improvements to make our streets safer and more efficient – without the massive price tags. This includes:

• Smarter use of existing road space, like adding turning bays or adjusting lane markings to reduce pinch points.
• Delivering minor intersection upgrades, like traffic islands or improved signage, that avoid the need for expensive and disruptive traffic light installations.
• Only installing parking restrictions where they make sense, such as removing a single park near a corner to improve visibility or where it would reduce delays for travellers by freeing up the turning lane.

Too often, we’ve seen transport projects become over-engineered, especially when it comes to cycleways and intersection upgrades. Designs that should be straightforward end up including unnecessary traffic lights, dangerous concrete islands, or complex lane markings – even on quiet local roads where simple signage may work just as well.

Instead of making things easier, these upgrades can actually slow down cyclists with repeated stop-start sections or detours, and confuse drivers and pedestrians with excessive signage and layout changes. The end result can be a frustrating experience for everyone – and a price tag that’s far higher than it needs to be.

The original goal – safer and more accessible streets – has gotten lost in a maze of technical requirements and over-design. What should be a clear, smooth ride has become like a stop-start obstacle course.

This is especially concerning when the costs keep blowing out. Some cycleway sections have cost millions of dollars per kilometre, even though in many cases the number of people using them is modest. And projects like Halswell Junction Road – where KiwiRail’s involvement has pushed the cost beyond $34 million – show how lack of restraint and poor oversight can lead to huge delays and wasted ratepayer money.

We need to get back to basics: simple, effective designs that do the job without overcomplicating it. That means focusing on value for money, listening to locals, and choosing solutions that make sense on the ground, not just on a consultant’s plan.

I will advocate for practical, affordable, and timely transport solutions that respect both our communities and our ratepayers pockets.