Transport Secretary unveils her vision for integrated transport – comment

Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh MP has unveiled her vision for integrated transport across England in a speech today (28 November 2024).

Speaking at Leeds Civic Hall, she outlined her vision for a new Integrated National Transport Strategy, which will set out a ‘people-first approach’ to getting people around the country. 

Catherine Woodhead, Chief Executive of Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking comments:

“There’s a lot to like in the Transport Secretary’s vision, particularly her recognition that people need to be supported to make cleaner transport choices with streets that are free from damaged pavements and unsafe crossings. We would like to see this further supported with action to tackle dangerous pavement parking.

“Nobody knows streets better than the people who use them every day, so the Transport Secretary’s intention to empower local leaders should also be celebrated. We need to ensure local authorities are properly resourced so they can create streets that meet the needs of their communities.

“The strategy promises to set out a clear vision for how transport across England can evolve, so places offer more seamless journeys door-to-door. Every journey starts and ends with walking, so we want to see walking at the heart of this strategy.

“Walking keeps us healthy, connected and can boost local economies, as Living Streets’ recently updated Pedestrian Pound research shows. It’s no wonder the Transport Secretary recognises it as the best choice for shorter journeys. We look forward to working with Louise Haigh MP to ensure it’s a choice more people have.”