Wales is transforming transport

Hello Supporter

"Quietly and unobtrusively, Wales has become the transport example that much of the rest of Britain should follow."

That's a quote from writer, podcast host and broadcaster Christian Wolmar, who wrote this week's guest blog for us. His blog highlights just how progressive Welsh transport policy has been in recent years. Transport for Wales (TfW) has done much to promote sustainable transport options that place the environment and the wellbeing of future generations at their heart.

Of course, transport is not perfect in Wales, which has vast rural areas where the population is widely scattered. But on my own travels I have been very impressed with some of its forward-thinking projects, including the amazing new South Wales Metro trains, pictured above courtesy of TfW.

The South Wales Metro has been a large integrated transport project with significant investment into electrified tracks, new trains and depots, line extensions and improved stations, alongside better interchange with buses and other modes - making travel by public transport much easier. 

Two other recent developments have caught my eye...

Higher parking charges for SUVs 

In October, Cardiff Council became the first UK authority to approve higher parking charges for Sports Utility Vehicles, or SUVs. The decision followed a public consultation in which two thirds of respondents said they agreed that larger vehicles should pay more for permits. The larger, heavier vehicles cause more pollution, more wear and tear to roads and are more likely to cause fatalities if involved in a collision. These higher charges aim "to encourage drivers to switch to smaller vehicles". Time will tell if the policy works. A similar scheme in Paris has led to a two-thirds reduction in the number of SUVs parking on the streets.

Keeping buses affordable for young people

Young people and children can now travel on Welsh buses for just £1 single and £3 for a day pass, thanks to a Welsh Government initiative. Transport for Wales introduced the initiative last year, which it says will keep travel affordable for more young people.

The whole of Wales is planning a move to bus franchising, coordinated by TfW, which is expected to result in a much improved bus network with fewer gaps in provision.

Of course, there's always room for improvement, but many would argue that Wales is getting much of its transport policy right, and the rest of Britain could learn from it.

Silviya

Silviya Barrett, Director of Policy and Research
Campaign for Better Transport