Support
Solihull Local Plan (Draft Submission) 2020
Representation ID: 13985
Received: 14/12/2020
Respondent: Transport for the West Midlands
- TfWM welcome principles established in this Chapter, and reference to WM Strategic Transport Plan ‘Movement for Growth’.
- However we encourage reference to emerging Local Transport Plan for 2021, and TfWM’s Delivery Plan.
Acknowledge the potential that growth can being, including opportunities for improved public transport, cycling and walking infrastructure, which benefit new and existing communities.
- Have concerns about predicted traffic increase at many of proposed sites, and will likely result in further congestion and poorer long-term social and environmental outcomes.
- WMCA’s #2041 Climate Change Strategy/Action Plan should be noted in this chapter also, especially as transport is the biggest source of carbon emissions.
- Despite improvements to engine technologies, transport emissions have remained high over the last 30 years, largely due to increased car usage related to economic and population growth.
- Important that transport and planning respond to these challenges.
RECOMMENDATION:
- Within ‘Policy P7 Accessibility and Ease of Access’, the ambition for a low carbon economy requires a stronger emphasis on de-carbonisation priorities for transport and how these will significantly contribute to reducing carbon emissions and meeting the regions wider environmental goals and climate emergency.
- There should also be reference made to the WMCA’s #2041 Climate Change Strategy/Action Plan and the importance of sustainable transport in responding to the climate emergency.
See Attached Letter and Representation Form.