Transport system overhaul for fiscal and environmental improvement
Summary
Revision of current funding for the UK transport system is essential to help create economic growth and reduce carbon emissions.
In the White Paper ‘Creating Growth, Cutting Carbon’ (Cm. 7996), the Department for Transport (DfT) outlines the need to offer green alternatives for car drivers where possible, as two thirds of all journeys are under five miles.
There is emphasis on improving greener methods of transport by making public transport facilities more attractive and providing more easily accessible routes for cycling and travelling on foot.
As cars are likely to remain the dominant transport mode, especially for long-haul journeys; focus is on how they can lessen damage to the environment. The Government is committed to supporting the market in electric, and other ultra-low emission vehicles.
The Government believes that communities will benefit from careful, localised decision-making in that individuals will have greater input in implementing changes to suit their personal circumstances.
From 2011/12 to 2014/15, the DfT will provide four grant streams in support of local transport:
- Major Schemes Programme to support large transport schemes costing over £5 million which may have otherwise been unaffordable.
- Local highways maintenance to drive greater efficiency in delivery of projects in order to keep highways well maintained.
- Integrated transport block will help local authorities to implement small-scale local transport schemes.
- 4. A £560 million Local Sustainable Transport Fund for local authorities to deliver cleaner environments, improved safety and increased levels of physical activity.
These grants intend to help make a difference not only for economic benefit and to tackle climate change but also to increase road safety and public health.
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