Transport
Transport is more than moving people and goods where they need to go. We can’t tackle the warming world without addressing transport.
We want to see the new Mayor lead on a different approach to transport that gives us a stronger economy and a cleaner, more pleasant world, that’s more resilient to the challenges of climate change.
We call upon the mayor for:
1. An end to transport poverty
When distances are too far to walk or cycle, many people who can’t afford a car also find it a struggle to pay bus or train fares. Yet they need transport to get to work, healthcare, shops, family or friends.
We call for public transport that is affordable or free.
2. Public transport that’s easy to use
Public transport can be confusing. People worry about connections, long waiting times and baffling timetabling.
We call for integration of services, timetables, stations, ticketing and information across all forms of public transport – bus, rapid transit, tram, light rail, rail, ferry, and demand-responsive transport.
We call for frequent fast services during peak times along major routes.
3. Designing places for people
People are safer, happier and healthier when cars have lower priority than buses, walking and cycling.
We call for new housing and developments to be rejected unless they meet standards to reduce traffic blight.
We say: pavements are for people. End the blight of pavement parking. Re-allocate road space to cycle lanes and bus-lanes. Make safe routes for children to get to school, to shops, parks, the library, and friends, with a 20-mph speed limit in all built-up areas.
4. Shifting freight off the road
Heavy lorries damage infrastructure like road surfaces; emit pollution that causes ill-health and global warming; and increase congestion.
We say goods should be moved by rail, not road.
5. More and better targeted investment
Investment in transport shouldn’t start with how people and goods move about, but why and where.
When you measure the full cost, public money spent on public transport gives a better return than investment in roads. Air pollution and lack of exercise lead to reduced economic vitality and higher healthcare costs, as well as the costs of responding to climate change.
We say, let’s bring in more money to deliver better transport - and a transport strategy that makes best use of resources from taxpayers and travellers. We’ll get government funding by being ambitious and innovative, with better local rail links and a franchised bus service under public control.
6. Think big and think long term
We call on the Mayor to make life better for climate, people and nature. To replace petrol and diesel with renewable electricity. To put transport at the centre of strategies for economy, health, climate and nature.