Towards A Sustainable Transport System

This discussion paper describes the Government's transport policy objectives, in light of the recommendations of the Eddington transport study (2006, ISBN 9780118404877) and the Stern report on the economics of climate change (2007, ISBN 9780102944204). It sets out the Department for Transport's policy and investment plans for the period to 2013-14. It goes on to propose a new approach to longer-term strategic transport planning and development, building on the Eddington model, and explains how it will engage with key stakeholders during its implementation. Four key steps are identified in this approach: clarity about policy goals; identifying transport challenges; generating options to address them; and selecting options that deliver the best value for money in the context of sustainable development. The document highlights five broad goals within the Government's transport agenda: maximising the competitiveness and productivity of the economy; addressing climate change; protecting people's safety, security and health; improving quality of life through a healthy natural environment; and promoting greater equality of opportunity.