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."
The new Renault 5E has a declared tow limit of 500kg, though it would completely wreck the range expectation.
I have a bike themed Christmas sweater, key rings with pieces of old chain attached and socks with bikes on. I'm known for being stylish.
Well, I was speculating on that. There's human nature (go for easy), there's having "shiny new things" (display of prestige / fashion / wealth),...
Video : Moment woman carrying child flees hit-and-run Hanley crash caught on CCTV...
No I am all for it. I think recognition for sporting achievements should be applied fairly and evenly irrespective of any differences. I feel that...
Shocked! Shocked!...
To be clear then, a group of 10 won't trigger a driver but 2 will. And you've never been taught a lesson simply for being on the road ?
The real question is which races his new team will get to participate in next year. Also, if he were to have any sort of injury/illness his actual...
A white helmet could make you slightly more visible....
the brand Mavic carries weight and heritage but in 2024/25 the competition offers more compelling options with support that trumps the heritage...