DfT regional roadshows to shape future of integrated transport

A series of regional roadshows are being held by the Department for Transport (DfT) to help shape the future of integrated transport.

The local transport minister, Simon Lightwood, is launching the initiative today (Wednesday, February 12) in Manchester.

He will be meeting with businesses, passengers and local leaders for their input on how transport can work for their specific area, recognising there is no one-size-fits-all solution and each region has its own transport challenges.

Starting in Newcastle and ending in Milton Keynes, the roadshows, which involve a series of roundtables and discussions, will help shape a 10-year strategy for integrated transport.

That could include better technology to manage traffic, coordinated bus and train timetables so passengers do not have to wait for 20 minutes for the next transport mode to arrive, and parking options in one app. 

It is a national vision of transport, but delivered by local people, where the power belongs, says DfT.

The Government is also encouraging the public to respond to a consultation, which closes on February 20 to hear suggestions directly from transport users across the country. 

Lightwood said: “We’ve all had the frustration of our train arriving 10 minutes too late for our connecting bus service. 

“We want more people across England to benefit from more integrated transport that makes day-to-day journeys easier – from coordinated timetables and easy route planning to tap in, tap out payments.

“We will empower local leaders to build a system that’s right for their needs, connecting cars and buses, trams and trains, and cycling and walking, into one joined-up system. 

“To kick off this process, we’re listening to local leaders across the country, to hear how we can best create a new national transport vision that connects all modes of transport and prioritises people at its core.” 

The regional transport roadshows will stop at Newcastle, Manchester, Birmingham, Leicester, Ipswich, Bristol, Brighton, London, Cornwall and Milton Keynes in February and March. 

Ideas gathered at the roadshows will shape the transport strategy, which will be published this year.

The Government will be listening to ideas on how it can support better integrated public transport and improve transport in rural areas. 

Recognising that driving is often a necessary choice, the DfT says it will also be listening to ideas on how to help drivers, which could include systems that help manage traffic flows or help drivers easily find, and pay for, parking spaces. 

It will also consider how cycling and walking can become the best choice for shorter journeys, through prioritising pavement repairs, safe crossings and cycle infrastructure where they are needed most.