The UK Department for Transport have released a report describing the progress they’ve made since they issued the “Gear Change” policy one year ago.
Strong support from the Prime Minister
The report highlights strong support from the UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnston:
Clear benefits
The report summarises the clear benefits of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs):
Majority support from residents
The report highlights that LTNs enjoy the support of the majority of residents, and that the noise from a passionate minority needs to be placed in appropriate context:
Councils risk losing general funding if they don’t support cycling
The UK Government will reduce “wider funding allocations” to councils who don’t take active travel seriously:
Councils are required to consult fairly
Councils are required to use professional, representative polling, so as not to be unfairly biased by a minority opposition.
Our view
Streets Alive Yarra applauds the UK government for strongly supporting Low Traffic Neighbourhoods and infrastructure for walking, cycling, and public transport. If the conservative party in the UK can do this, then the progressive side of politics in Victoria should be able to do this too. If you’d like to see similar policies in Victoria, contact the Premier and the Minister for Transport, and ask them to read the report.
- Dan Andrews: daniel.andrews@parliament.vic.gov.au
- Ben Carroll: ben.carroll@parliament.vic.gov.au
Published 2nd August 2021