Integrated transport strategy can make a real difference to lives and communities
2 April 2026
Responding to the publication of Better Connected: a strategy for integrated transport, Ben Plowden of Campaign for Better Transport said:
“This strategy recognises the importance of safe, reliable, affordable and accessible transport to people’s lives and communities. As rail, bus and planning reforms progress, we welcome the focus on creating a transport network that works as a whole to meet people’s daily needs, from accessible train stations to somewhere to sit at the bus stop.
“We are pleased that the strategy focuses on integration between modes, and also between different government departments and different levels of government, across different policy areas and between different forms of investment and funding.
“With transport playing such an important part in all of our lives, the key issue now is delivery of the intentions in the strategy in practice.”
On the subject of local decision-making, Ben Plowden added:
“It is right that this strategy seeks to further empower local leaders and hold them to account. We welcome the emphasis on supporting and strengthening the capacity and capability of local authorities to deliver better transport for their communities.”
On integrated ticketing, Ben Plowden said:
“We welcome the commitment to expand integrated ticketing across the country. Integrated ticketing is so important because it makes public transport the easy, obvious choice by making journeys smooth and simple. We also want to see a full review of fares to make them more affordable.”
On Mini-Switzerland, Ben Plowden said:
“This sort of visionary project can create ripples, inspire others and lead to broader changes.”
On planning, Ben Plowden said:
“For too long, transport and planning have been poorly integrated, leading to housing developments where residents have little choice but to use cars for their daily needs. This strategy aims to integrate transport and housing through vision-led planning, so that new homes are focused in well-connected locations. The key test will be whether this goal is achieved in reality.”
On affordability, Ben Plowden said:
“The transport poverty that limits people’s opportunities and their access to services needs to be tackled as a matter of urgency. We are glad to see a commitment in the strategy to develop a new measure of transport poverty, as well as a focus on the affordability of transport, which is essential to create a more equal society.”
On mass transit, Ben Plowden said:
“The establishment of a Mass Transit Taskforce is an important step towards harnessing the power of truly integrated mass transit systems.”
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
Better Connected: a strategy for integrated transport can be read online.
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, reduces inequality, and supports a vibrant, productive and decarbonised economy. Campaign for Better Transport Charitable Trust is a registered charity (1101929).
