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Sustainable transport charity Sustrans has sternly criticised the Government’s latest announcements backing the car and several road building projects.
Yesterday Transport Secretary Philip Hammond confirmed a number of road improvements across the country, stating that the enhancements are a much needed ‘key driver’ of growth.
Sustrans has attacked the pro-road plans.
"Sustrans is dismayed that government is missing a golden opportunity to put right a broken transport system, despite its green promises.," said Jason Torrance, Sustrans policy manager.
"The Secretary of State for Transport proudly boasts that his lengthy list of road transport schemes bring benefits of £6 for every £1 spent. But sustainable transport schemes that encourage active travel offer much better value, at £8 for every £1 spent. And they directly address the congestion issues that today’s announcement claims to resolve. 


"And there are other benefits. Given that 1 in 20 UK people are now being treated for type 2 diabetes and 1 in 10 for obesity – both illnesses that are exacerbated by physical inactivity – improving the health of the nation, and tackling the costs attached to that, has to be seen as critical.
"With this in mind not prioritising walking and cycling should be unthinkable."
