This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
Listen
National Transport Strategy
05/12/2006
A National Transport Strategy, the Scottish government's long-term vision over the next 20 years and beyond, was launched today.
Transport Minister Tavish Scott said that choices had to be made today because only last week the Eddington report highlighted that 89 per cent of traffic congestion in the UK is caused in and around our cities.
The recently published Stern report into climate change also demonstrated that the environmental impact of transport had to be tackled.
The Strategy sets out priorities to:
- Improve journey times and connections
- Reduce emissions
- Improve quality, accessibility and affordability of transport
The Minister said:
"Scotland's transport system faces strong challenges in the future. Congestion on our roads is increasing, people are buying more cars, and emissions are on the increase.
"The challenges we face are significant, but not impossible. To duck them is not an option. We need to make choices, and we need to make choices now for Scotland's future. We must give people the choice of excellent public transport. We will build new rail lines, invest in strategic road links and improve the bus network.
"For the first time, this strategy maps out the long term future for transport in Scotland. Across rail, bus, ferry and road, we set out our objectives, priorities and plans to make that vision a reality.
"Our aim is to have a world class transport system fit for the 21st century. An integrated, reliable and environmentally efficient transport system fit for both business and Scots across the country.
"We want to see our towns and cities better connected, with more comfortable, reliable and faster journeys.
"We want to see Scotland's businesses move their goods to market efficiently, reliably and competitively.
"And we want to reduce emissions. I want to see Scotland's transport reducing the impact it has on the environment, particularly carbon emissions.
"This strategy will not gather dust. It is not about starry eyed ministers. it is about securing our future. This strategy will make sure that over the next twenty years and beyond we strive for a world class transport system that meets the needs of passengers, businesses and the environment."