New vision for transport unveiled for Stoke-on-Trent

A new vision for transport has been launched to help ‘build a system that works for the people of Stoke-on-Trent’.

The transport prospectus, titled ‘On the Move: Transport for Thriving Communities’, outlines transport priorities for the future which focus on bus, rail and active travel.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s vision includes developing a reliable and affordable bus network, investing in roads to make them safer and smoother for everyone and ending gridlock by making major improvements to the city’s busiest roads.

Other priorities include the installation of more cycle lanes, dropped kerbs and better crossings to make walking and cycling safer for pedestrians, investing in more electric vehicle charging points, promoting the switch to greener vehicles and continuing to improve the links between buses and trains.

Residents, partners and stakeholders are now being asked for their views on the document, which will help to inform the development of the Local Transport Plan 2026-2040, and a six-week consultation is now underway.

Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, regeneration and infrastructure, said: “We know that, right now, our transport system is not working as it should. It’s not working for older people, workers, families, students and small businesses.

“Our vision sets out a bold, practical plan to fix our transport system, built around a core belief that everyone deserves access to safe, reliable, affordable and green transport.

“That means better buses that actually go where people need them, when they need them. It means fixing our roads and pavements. It means making it safe and easy to walk, cycle or use a wheelchair. It means making greener travel the most convenient option - and giving people a real choice.

“Real change takes all of us, so we want to hear your ideas, your frustrations and your hopes. Please have your say and help us to shape the future of transport in our city.”

The launch of the transport prospectus comes just months after Stoke-on-Trent City Council gave the green light to its Joint Strategic Transport Statement. It was drawn up in partnership with senior leaders from Staffordshire County Council, to ensure we build a transport network that doesn’t stop at the city lines.

The statement sets out a series of shared priorities which, like the prospectus, range from improving public transport, making the road network work more efficiently and promoting active travel.

Residents, businesses and partners are now being encouraged to have their say on Stoke-on-Trent’s latest vision for transport. The survey and the transport prospectus can be viewed online at www.stoke.gov.uk/transportvision until Thursday 10 July.

Alternatively, email publictransport@stoke.gov.uk with any detailed feedback or suggestions.