The Urban Transport Group (UTG) has called on the government to seize the “critical moment” of the forthcoming Spending Review to secure long-term investment in public transport, with a warning that stable funding is essential to economic growth and meeting policy objectives.
In a report published Wednesday the UK network of transport authorities says “invest and grow” must be the central message of this year’s fiscal settlement. UTG argues that sustained investment in public transport will be integral to delivering on net zero, improving public health outcomes, reducing crime, and widening access to jobs and education.
Measures UTG is urging government to deliver include:
- Reform and provide long-term certainty of bus revenue support
- Confirm ‘City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements 2’ allocations and previously announced uplifts
- Continue progress towards integrated settlements for mayoral combined authorities
- Invest in the delivery of zero-emission buses
- Provide sustainable long-term funding to local authorities
- Commit to greater fiscal devolution
- Provide a multi-year funding settlement for Transport for London.
The report showcases transformative projects already delivered by UTG members through devolved powers and funding, including expansion of the West Midlands Metro, the opening of new stations in the Liverpool City Region and London’s Elizabeth Line. Pipeline initiatives outlined in the report include West Yorkshire’s proposed mass transit network.
Comments Jason Prince, Director of UTG (pictured): “City regions are the drivers of growth and our members are already delivering transport projects that are boosting economic prosperity, unlocking housing and employment opportunities, improving productivity and raising living standards across these places.
“Getting the right funding in the Spending Review is vital if this is to continue.”
