Councillor Mohammed Farooq, Leader of Peterborough City Council has voted in favour of the area’s updated Local Transport and Connectivity Plan because he says it is key to transport improvement and growth in the region.

Mr Farooq said the plan gave better opportunities for transport choice but at the same time did not penalise people for using their car.

He, said: “We have huge aspirations for growth in Peterborough and a key part of our plans is having an improved transport system which offers better opportunities around public transport, walking and cycling, whilst not penalising those who choose to use their cars. 

“It is for this reason that I have today voted in support of the Combined Authority’s updated Local Transport and Connectivity Plan (LTCP).

“The plan sets out clearly how we will provide transport options which will meet everyone’s needs, thereby improving public health by providing more walking and cycling options, meeting our net zero aspirations by making it easier for people to favour public transport and ensuring that motorists are not penalised for using their cars.

“There has been commentary in recent months about the updated LTCP opening the door to ultra low emission zones or other schemes which penalise motorists. The plan I have voted for today clearly states that schemes such as this can only be introduced if approved and endorsed by the city council and I can confirm there are no plans to bring forward such schemes in Peterborough. The council also has the power of ‘veto’ on the implementation of any highways related scheme within Peterborough, which means it can cease any scheme proposed by the Combined Authority which it does not believe to be in the best interests of the city.

“To be absolutely clear, there will be no ULEZ or congestion charge in Peterborough under my leadership.”