Integrated National Transport Strategy Recommendations
The Integrated National Transport Strategy (INTS) is a critical framework for reshaping how the UK approaches transport across various modes and sectors. Our response outlines a set of key recommendations aimed at improving integration, sustainability and support for local authorities, while addressing both current challenges and future opportunities in the transport landscape.
Broad Range of Transport Modes
The INTS should consider all modes of transport, ensuring that policy and infrastructure support a seamless journey experience across different systems, from rail to road, bus, and emerging mobility services.
Transforming Travel in Different Areas
It is essential for the strategy to explain how travel will evolve in different regions, considering local needs and challenges while promoting balanced, accessible transport solutions nationwide.
Support and Funding for Local Authorities
The strategy must clarify how national government will support local authorities and Mayoral Combined Authorities with the funding and resources needed to implement more ambitious transport strategies and solutions.
Managing the Changing Costs of Motoring
A clear plan is needed for how to manage the rising costs of motoring for those who have to rely on it, while also ensuring public transport can compete effectively. This will help encourage shifts toward sustainable, accessible transport alternatives.
Decarbonisation of Transport
The INTS must outline how it will contribute to decarbonising transport, integrating low-carbon technologies, and policies that align with the UK’s environmental goals.
Integration Beyond Modes
The strategy should not focus solely on transport modes but also on the broader systems and activities that make life easier for users—such as better connections between transport and other services.
Supporting Housing Growth
The strategy should link transport planning with housing growth targets, ensuring that new developments are located where meaningful integration opportunities exist, contributing to sustainable urban growth.
Contributing to Public Health
The INTS should clearly state how transport policies will support public health goals, ensuring that transport systems contribute to healthier communities through access to active travel and cleaner environments.
Energy Integration in Transport
The strategy must address how travel options will be integrated with the energy system, with a focus on local authorities’ roles in ensuring fair and sustainable outcomes in energy-efficient transport.
Funding for Integration
To create meaningful change, the strategy must outline a clear increase in funding for transport integration, with a shift towards outcome-based scrutiny over traditional ex-ante checks and balances.
Adapting to New Mobility and Energy Challenges
The INTS should articulate a vision for how transport will adapt to emerging challenges, including the integration of energy systems and new mobility services, while addressing past shortcomings in planning and delivery.
Freight and Passenger Transport
The strategy must also address the future of freight transport alongside passenger services, ensuring that both sectors are integrated into a cohesive, efficient transport system.
