Not a referendum

Tim Bayley (October 20) seems to think that the elections for mayor and council were all about the Southern Link.

I voted for those I thought were best for Nelson. Those I have spoken to about how they voted did not vote about the Southern Link either.

The elections were not a referendum, although they obviously were for some. My understanding is that the council will not be making the decision on the link, but it is a matter for New Zealand Land Transport and the Environment Court.

I feel that those who made out it was a referendum on the link did a disservice to voters, as we have little or no say on whether it goes ahead or not. Other issues important to Nelson received little prominence as a result. billion and $70 billion over the next decade.

This is the price for failing to change our attitudes towards, for instance, motor vehicles. Instead of looking for ways of reducing emissions we continue to plan new roads which will probably increase largely fossil-fuelled car commuting - induced demand is the scientific term for this effect.

Fortunately, the delay in a decision on the Southern Link provides an opportunity for us to develop more enlightened attitudes towards commuting.