The Government has published ‘Better Connected’, its strategy on integrated transport, committing to eight priorities: simplifying payments and information; providing safe and dependable journeys; making travel accessible and affordable; creating healthier communities; aligning transport and development; championing data and technology; empowering local leaders; and optimising decision-making and appraisal.
The strategy has a strong focus on technology, with contactless ticketing, data and innovation playing a key role, and the strategy promising to ‘embed technology and innovation in transport’. Better Connected includes £30m for digital twins, £10mi for local authorities to trial innovative projects and £6m for an integrated transport demonstrator.
Commenting on the strategy, Max Sugarman, Chief Executive of ITS UK said:
“It’s fantastic to see technology play such a vital role in Better Connected, including in areas like digital twins, journey planning and navigation, smart ticketing and the more effective use of data.
“In our Manifesto for the Future of Transport, ITS UK recommended a number of policies reflected in this document, from making greater use of data to speeding up the roll-out of smart ticketing and providing a different approach to procurement that better leverages technology.
“Technology has a critical role to play in supporting a safer, more accessible and ‘joined-up’ transport network – and this strategy provides a great path forward, which industry is ready to support.”
The Local Government Association (LGA) has also issued a formal response to the publication of the Better Connected local transport strategy.
An LGA Spokesperson said:
“Councils recognise the importance of integrated and better connected transport services for residents and to support local economies.
“They are already working hard to achieve this, working with their combined authorities where they exist and with private operators, as well as with new technology to bring about further connectivity benefits.
“It is helpful that the much anticipated refreshed Local Transport Plan Guidance has now been published and we hope that it will help more areas to achieve their vision for improved and better local transport provision.
“Sufficient and long-term funding certainty for local transport and highways services is vital to ensure that councils can provide resilient and modern infrastructure to support better connectivity and innovation.”
The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation (CIHT) welcomed the framework’s intention to have people and places at the heart of transport decision-making.
Sue Percy, chief executive, said:
“The strategy reflects many of the priorities CIHT has consistently highlighted, including the need to simplify journeys for users, improve integration across modes, empower local leaders and ensure transport better supports economic growth, inclusion and decarbonisation. Turning this ambition into delivery will now be critical, and CIHT looks forward to continuing to work with Government and partners to help make integrated transport a reality for communities across England.”
(Picture: gov.uk)
