Peninsula Transport, the Sub-national Transport Body for Cornwall, Devon, Plymouth, Somerset and Torbay is asking for views on its draft transport strategy. There is now just one week left to have your say, with the consultation closing 5 February 2024.
Launched on 11 December 2023, the strategy is focused on overcoming regional transport challenges such as network resilience, seasonal variation and rural accessibility. Peninsula Transport wants to see vital improvements in regional transport in order to help unlock the peninsula’s full economic potential, as well as improving the environment and making life better for residents.
To do this, the strategy sets out four outcomes and a route map to achieving a transport network that works for everyone – from businesses to communities and visitors.
By 2030 the desired outcomes are:
- Easier journeys: integrating walking and wheeling with the bus and rail network, with integrated ticketing, to make getting around without a car easy.
- Going electric: enabling affordable zero-emission transport through a reliable electric vehicle charging network.
- A connected peninsula: delivering resilient, safe and reliable road and rail travel within the peninsula and beyond.
These outcomes will lead to Peninsula Transport’s ultimate goal:
- Completing the network: improved connections within a growing and fully integrated transport network on a path to net zero.
Peninsula Transport Chairman, Councillor Andrea Davis, said: “The quality of our transport network affects the day-to-day experiences we all have. Whether that is going to work or school, accessing health care, running a business, enjoying our spare time, or getting goods into the shops to name just a few.
“We have had a fantastic response to the consultation already but there is still time left to respond, so I urge everyone within the South West to get involved and have your say. Through the strategy, we will provide a collective regional voice, helping to boost our key transport links so let us know if we have got it right.”
Looking forward, the strategy will set the foundation for a new Strategic Investment Plan which will identify and prioritise the transport schemes and projects that reflect regional and national policies and best meet the needs of the user.
The consultation and feedback survey is available on the Peninsula Transport website, www.peninsulatransport.org.uk.