Sustrans, the sustainable transport charity, has reacted quickly to the government’s announcement yesterday that it was suspending all transport projects not currently under contract as part of its spending review, saying that it should focus on smarter travel options that provide the best return on investment.
The government’s decision puts £1.6 billion worth of projects at risk ahead of a financial review that will take place in the autumn following a joint review of spending by the Treasury and the DfT. Immediate cuts have been made in the road safety budget as well as money put aside to address urban congestion, to the tune, respectively, of £17.2 million and £7.9 million.
The Times quoted Transport Secretary Philip Hammond, who recently said he could never contemplate cycling in London, providing sharp contrast with his predecessor, keen cyclist Lord Adonis, as saying: “I am taking this action to ensure that no taxpayers’ money is spent unnecessarily on transport schemes that are now under review.”
He continued: “If we are to succeed in reducing the UK’s record budget deficit, it is vital that not a single penny is wasted and we get the maximum value for money for every project.”
Jason Torrance, Policy Manager at Sustrans, said: "As scrutiny on public spending is intensified we believe it is more important than ever that investment is focused on interventions that deliver high value for money, and benefits across Government.
"Large road schemes often have a return on investment of less than £2 for every £1 spent. But we believe there are better, smarter ways to spend money. The work of Sustrans consistently proves that helping people to use their cars less for short local journeys delivers multiple benefits: not least financially - using the government's own cost benefit system local walking and cycling schemes shows a return on investment of £15 to £33 for every pound spent."
" It's not like a destination where you say come on kids, let's get your coats, we’re going to railway approach. It's not a day out"...
I disagree, Tories have a history of hating anything they think represents "something for nothing", be that cycling, alternative energy sources or...
While I can't afford these particular Assos bib tights, I'm delighted to see winter tights with impact protection. I hope this protection trickles...
These aren't even decals, they're stickers. Pretty obvious it's one of their mates printing these out, hence the glowing review....
The tracks are basically a modified wall of death. Part of the excitement watching is the risks involved. It's the riders choice.
Jimmy Anderson should also be getting a lifetime achievement award too imo
And just how are you supposed to transport your three kits children to the only decent school school you can get them in / nursery, to their after...
No. Calling it terrorism isn't hyperbole. Those obstacles are meant to cause harm and spread fear (terror). It literally is terrorism.
What an excellent article, thank you road.cc. I am insured with the RAC and checked with them online to confirm I had a bike-rack towbar fitted...
Good point - could be something from art, or a computer game?