PM urged to prioritise local transport in 2026
Campaign for Better Transport has written to the Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to urge him to put integrated, sustainable, local transport at the heart of the Government’s agenda in 2026.
The transport group is calling on the PM to build on the significant progress made last year through the Railways Bill, the Bus Services Act, the Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill and the forthcoming Integrated National Transport Strategy, by prioritising sustainable and integrated local transport as the most effective way to support economic opportunity, public health and social inclusion.
The letter argues that with 70 per cent of trips still under five miles, focusing investment on local transport will quickly deliver tangible, on-the-ground improvements to public transport, cycling, walking and wheeling for communities across the country. Investment in aviation and major new road schemes, by contrast, risk locking in traffic growth, car dependency and transport related social exclusion and puts the UK’s climate goals in jeopardy.
Ben Plowden, Chief Executive of Campaign for Better Transport, said: “Transport is much more than just a way of getting from A to B: it is key to happy and healthy communities, to growing and thriving economies, and to enabling every one of us to live fulfilling lives, access jobs, opportunities and leisure, and connect with others.
“Most travel is local, so investment in improving local transport has a disproportionate social, economic and environmental benefit. By increasing local transport investment and continuing devolution, the Government can not only transform lives and communities but also restore an increasingly fragile faith in the power of politicians to prioritise the things that really matter.”
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, reduces inequality, and supports a vibrant, productive and decarbonised economy. Campaign for Better Transport Charitable Trust is a registered charity (1101929).
