A new long‑term strategy to help make Dorset’s transport and travel better for residents, the economy and the environment is being reviewed by councillors.
Dorset Council’s Place and Resources Overview committee are being asked to give their views on the final draft of the Local Transport Plan 2026 to 2041. The pan-Dorset Transport Plan has been produced by Dorset Council and BCP Council following a major public consultation exercise last year.
It sets out how the councils will work with communities and partners to make everyday journeys safer, healthier and more reliable, while reducing congestion and cutting carbon emissions.
Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Place Services, said:
“How we travel affects our health, our environment and our quality of life. This plan is about making everyday journeys safer and easier, whether you’re walking to school, catching a bus to work or driving.
“People told us they want practical improvements that work for Dorset’s towns, villages and countryside. This plan reflects that feedback and gives us a strong foundation to secure funding and deliver change over time.
“We look forward to working with BCP Council on delivering this ambitious vision for a cleaner, greener and more accessible Dorset for everyone.”
The Local Transport Plan looks at how people travel to work, school, shops, healthcare and leisure.
It sets clear priorities for improving walking, cycling, public transport, road safety and access for rural and urban communities. The plan also supports economic growth while protecting Dorset’s environment.
The plan has been shaped by thousands of comments from residents, businesses and community groups, gathered through engagement in 2024 and a formal public consultation in 2025.
Significant funding has already been confirmed to support delivery of the plan. The Department for Transport has allocated Dorset Council approximately £158.5m of transport funding for 2026/27 to 2029/30 – this includes both capital and revenue funding through the Integrated Transport Fund and Bus Services Fund.
Of this, £33m has been committed for 2026/27 to support highways maintenance, bus services, active travel and other local transport priorities.
If adopted later this year, the Local Transport Plan will guide:
- where transport funding is prioritised
- how new development is supported by transport infrastructure
- decisions on road safety, active travel and public transport improvements
Rather than listing individual schemes, the plan sets out a clear long‑term direction, with more detailed delivery plans brought forward in phases as funding becomes available.
Councillor Andy Hadley, BCP Council Cabinet Member for Climate Response, Environment and Energy, said: “Working closely with our colleagues at Dorset Council is central to delivering this strategy and realising our shared vision for the future of transport across the area.
“This strategy balances the needs of all highway users, helps address the congestion and climate impacts of travel, and puts safety of people at its core. The consultation process helped us to focus on what matters most to our communities.”
(Picture: Mapillary)
