Have your say on the future of transport in Bucks

Residents and businesses are being asked to share their views on the future of transport in Buckinghamshire as part of a public consultation which starts today (Monday).

The blueprint, published by the county council, comes in the form of a new draft Buckinghamshire Local Transport Plan – which covers all types of transport and looks ahead to 2036.

The extended consultation, which runs through the council’s online ‘Have Your Say’ web page, runs until January 29 2016.

Launching the consultation, cabinet member for transport Mark Shaw said good transport systems were essential to grow the county’s economy, serve its residents and businesses well, and make the county a great place to live and work.

Cllr Shaw said: “Planning for the future of transport in the county is critically important, and we don’t get a second chance at it.

“I want to make sure we really understand the people of Buckinghamshire.

“With their feedback I believe we’ll be able to make this a practical working plan for change, that will benefit everyone in the county.”

He said that as well as supporting good roads, public transport, cycleways and footpaths, the draft Local Transport Plan aimed to:

• Encourage links to local, national and international destinations that promote a flourishing economy

• Empower communities to support their own local transport solutions

• Enable and promote travel choices that improve people’s health

Cllr Shaw added: “The draft plan is very clear about maintaining and enhancing our county’s special environment, and helping residents and businesses thrive and develop to become one of the strongest and most productive economies in the country.”

The draft plan also supports a number of vital transport improvements for example East-West Rail, which is set to lead to an estimated £72 million boost to the local economy.