The UK government has created a new Mass Transit Taskforce aimed at improving how tram, light rail and bus-based transit systems are planned and delivered across towns and cities.
The initiative, launched by the Department for Transport, is intended to identify barriers affecting the development of mass transit projects and propose measures to make delivery more efficient.
An artist’s impression of a future West Yorkshire Mass Transit system
© West Yorkshire Combined Authority
Mass transit is defined by the government as transport networks such as trams, light rail systems and high-frequency bus services designed to move large numbers of passengers within urban areas. The government said such systems are intended to support access to jobs, housing and public services while contributing to reduced congestion and emissions.
The taskforce will operate independently and is chaired by Bridget Rosewell. Its membership includes experts from transport planning, industry and academia, including representatives from organisations such as Create Streets, Arup and the Urban Transport Group, which will also act as secretariat.
The group will examine issues such as planning processes, funding structures and land acquisition, which are identified as common obstacles to delivering large-scale transport projects. It will also review international examples and make recommendations on delivery models and financing approaches.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said:
Mass transit has the potential to transform towns and cities across the country. Creating a better, more integrated transport system will not only support economic growth and new jobs but will also deliver desperately needed housing.
That’s why I am delighted to announce the formation of the Mass Transit Taskforce, which will use its skills and vast knowledge to deliver real and practical recommendations to shape the future of urban transport for years to come.
Meanwhile, we’re putting power in local hands, empowering mayors to deliver mass transit in their towns and cities so they can make decisions for the communities they know best.
Alongside the taskforce, the government confirmed plans to consult on expanding devolved transport powers for metro mayors. This includes potential changes to Transport and Works Act order powers, which would give local leaders greater authority over major transport decisions in their areas.
The taskforce is expected to begin evidence gathering immediately, with initial recommendations due within six months.
Several metro mayors welcomed the initiative, including representatives from West Yorkshire, the North East, the West of England and the Liverpool City Region, who said the taskforce could support ongoing plans for new or expanded mass transit systems in their areas.
Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, said:
Mass transit is a crucial layer of the West of England’s transport system for the future. This is on top of the better buses, more trains and stations, and safer roads and active travel that we’re working to deliver.
The government’s new Mass Transit Taskforce will bring additional expertise as we look at the best potential routes for mass transit in our region to move people around more quickly – whether that’s trams, light rail, or new buses. Just weeks ago, the historic Devolution Act empowered mayors with more levers to make things happen for our areas. Today, it’s brilliant to see even more powers being moved out of Westminster and into the West of England so that we can do more, faster.