The government has announced an additional £104 million in funding to improve local transport across England, aimed at making journeys faster, smoother and more reliable for millions of people.
The funding, which forms part of a wider £2.3 billion investment in local transport, will be distributed to councils across the country, including towns and rural areas outside the major cities.
Local authorities will be able to use the money to deliver improvements that best suit their communities, ranging from new zero-emission buses and congestion reduction schemes to upgraded pedestrian crossings, cycle routes and street lighting.
According to the Department for Transport, the Local Transport Grant allocations will provide significant increases in funding for regions such as the North West, Yorkshire and Humber, the East Midlands and West Midlands.
David Skaith, the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: ‘An accessible, affordable and reliable transport network is critical to growth in our region – connecting people to jobs, education and vital services.
‘After decades of neglect, we won’t be able to realise our transport aspirations overnight. However, this funding is a welcome boost that will ensure we can continue laying the groundwork and bringing together the skills and expertise we need to deliver the transport improvements across York and North Yorkshire that our communities want and need to see.’
The money is intended to help councils draw up detailed plans for projects with the greatest local impact, whether by supporting access to jobs and education, reducing journey times or enhancing connections to shops and essential services.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: ‘Good transport connections are the foundation of thriving communities, which is why we’re backing local authorities to transform journeys for millions of people across England.
‘This investment will help councils to improve transport for local people – from cleaner buses to safer cycling routes – connecting communities with jobs, education and essential services.
‘By putting resources directly into the hands of local leaders, we’re ensuring every part of the country benefits from better transport links that support economic growth and provide opportunity – all part of our Plan for Change.’
Ben Plowden, Chief Executive, Campaign for Better Transport, said: ‘With 70% of trips under 5 miles, properly resourced local authorities are central to the task of improving sustainable travel choices. Confirmation of this investment to help them plan and deliver schemes will be very welcome in towns and rural areas, where difficult journeys can cut people off from jobs, services and connections with others.
‘Better transport makes a huge difference to people’s lives, unlocking opportunities and revitalising communities.’
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