7 Feb 2009

Auckland council tightens belt to stay on track

6:14 am on 7 February 2009

Auckland Regional Council says it will tighten its belt to make sure major infrastructure projects stay on track.

Earlier this week, the council signalled that the global recession means its income streams are under severe stress.

There were fears a drop in revenue from Auckland Regional Holdings, which is responsible for $1.2 billion worth of assets and investments, could affect the council's infrastructure plans.

A meeting was held on Thursday to review the council's spending priorities.

Chairperson Mike Lee says the council will be able to meet its infrastructure commitments, including rail electrification and integrated ticketing.

Mr Lee says sacrifices will have to be made and cuts to administration are expected.

He says the council will look at a range of cost control measures to make sure it can complete key infrastructure projects.