Focus on transport welcomed in Kings Speech
Responding to the King’s Speech today, Paul Tuohy from transport charity Campaign for Better Transport, said:
“It’s good to see transport back on the agenda with bold plans to grow the network. Both Rail Bills are welcome, as are plans to improve bus services and give more powers to local leaders to deliver local transport systems that work for their communities. We are saddened to see no commitment to reinstating the Northern leg of HS2 however.”
Responding to the Rail Reform Bill, Paul Tuohy said: “The Rail Reform Bill will finally pave the way for the much-needed reforms to the railways that passengers and the country needs. Establishing Great British Railways – something we campaigned for and has broad support – will be the first step. Now the Government must deliver improvements quickly and get Britain’s railways back on track.”
Responding to the Passenger Railway Service (Public Ownership) Bill, Paul Tuohy said: “We welcome the emphasis placed on the needs of passengers in reforming our railways, but we will need to see how the Government intends to deliver this new model to judge its likely success.”
Responding to the Better Buses Bill, Paul Tuohy said: “Allowing local authorities to choose how best to deliver bus services and giving them greater control of routes, fares and standards where needed, could help to sustain and protect bus services, creating a more reliable bus network for all. Whilst franchising may not be suitable for all areas, everyone should have access to a quality bus service without risk of it being cut, which is why we are also calling for minimum service levels and long-term, ringfenced funding for all local authorities.”
Responding to the Devolution Bill, Paul Tuohy said: “We support more devolution of transport powers to regional mayors, but to successfully deliver sustainable transport networks that work, regions also need long-term funding settlements and a commitment to put sustainable transport at the heart of local transport plans.”
On the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, Paul Tuohy said: “We welcome the commitment to build the homes and infrastructure people need, but this needs to focus on sustainable options like rail over roads. Planning policies must also ensure that public transport is at the heart of all new homes, locating future developments near existing or expanded public transport networks to reduce the need for cars wherever possible.”
ENDS
For further information please contact the press office on 07984 773 468 (calls only no texts) or communications@bettertransport.org.uk.
Notes to Editors
- Campaign for Better Transport operates in England and Wales. Campaign for Better Transport’s vision is for all communities to have access to high quality, sustainable transport that meets their needs, improves quality of life and protects the environment. Campaign for Better Transport Charitable Trust is a registered charity (1101929).
