Louise Haigh considers French-style integrated transport system to enhance UK's public transit efficiency
by Katie Dickinson · ChronicleLiveTransport Secretary Louise Haigh has announced plans to explore a more cohesive public transport system across the UK, akin to the model in Dijon, France.
Speaking in Leeds on Thursday, Ms Haigh unveiled the Government's forthcoming Integrated National Transport Strategy, set for release next year after regional showcases and discussions with metro mayors.
At Leeds Civic Hall, she drew inspiration from her trip to Dijon, where she observed a fully integrated transport network managed through a single app.
She said: "[Dijon’s] fully integrated transport network is reliable, efficient and effective. And they built it, essentially, from scratch.
"It has succeeded in driving down congestion and pollution because when you build a genuinely integrated transport network people choose to use it.
"Technology is helping Dijon iron out the wrinkles in the system that can put people off using public transport.
"They are moving to a system where you can use your phone to pay, even if it has run out of battery.
"Tickets and car parking are priced dynamically depending on levels of air pollution.
"A single app brings together every mode of transport – from bus to tram, car hire to bike hire, planning your journey to paying for parking."
Discussing the transformative impact of localised transport initiatives, she pointed out: "We only need to look at the great work happening with the Bee Network in Greater Manchester and TfL in London to see how integrated transport, with a distinct local feel, is improving people’s lives."
Outlining the forthcoming strategy anticipated to lay down the trajectory for transport over the coming decade, Ms Haigh referenced its robust foundation claiming, it could mean passengers buying just "one ticket, at the best price".
She further highlighted the importance of leveraging traffic data to aid rural commutes, adding: "For many, especially in rural areas, driving will remain the only practical choice.
"I want these journeys to be smoother and more predictable, from using data to manage traffic flows, to helping drivers easily find, and pay for, parking spaces."
Additionally, Ms Haigh detailed plans to enhance cycling and walking for short-distance travel, underscoring an intention to prioritise the repair of pavements, the installation of safe crossings, and the establishment of dedicated cycle infrastructure “where they are needed most”.
The vision includes appointing a new integrated transport commissioner charged with overseeing this holistic approach, and Ms Haigh indicated that the Government eagerly awaits suggestions from the public as it finalises the proposed blueprint.
A series of regional roadshows will be held across the nation, with the aim of gathering insights from local leaders, transport operators and passenger bodies. The public will also have the opportunity to provide feedback on gov.uk, all in an effort to understand how best to deliver integrated transport.
Join our WhatsApp communities
ChronicleLive is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join our communities.
We have a number of communities to join, so you can choose which one you want to be part of and we'll send you the latest news direct to your phone. You could even join them all!
To join you need to have WhatsApp on your device. All you need to do is choose which community you want to join, click on the link and press 'join community'.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the ChronicleLive team.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.
If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
If you’re curious, you can read our privacy notice.
Join the ChronicleLive Breaking News and Top Stories community
Join our Court & Crime community
Join the Things to do in Newcastle and the North East community
Join our Northumberland community
Join our County Durham community
Join our Great North Run community