Commenting on transport decisions in today’s Budget, Rebecca Lush, Transport Action Network’s roads and climate campaigner, said:
“The Budget was a mixed bag, with some good decisions, but some odd ones too. We are delighted the Chancellor has scrapped several harmful road schemes such as the A5036 through Rimrose Valley Country Park which was vigorously opposed by Save Rimrose Valley who we have supported, and the A358 in Somerset which would have severed many communities. We were disappointed the A57 Link Road scheme went ahead in the Peak District, as this will only move traffic jams further along, increasing pressure for more roadbuilding in the National Park. Likewise the decisions to approve some of the A47 schemes in Norfolk will only increase traffic and carbon emissions. These are just expensive sticking plaster solutions, which divert scarce funds away from public transport.
We are always pleased to see more money go towards roads maintenance as this is urgently needed and benefits all road users. However, it was disappointing to see fuel duty being frozen yet again, whilst the bus fare cap was increased 50%. This sends the wrong message for a Government committed to modal shift”
Notes to Editors
The Autumn Budget is here.
Details of road schemes to be cancelled are at 4.73 of the Budget document, with road schemes to go ahead listed at 4.70.
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