Tackling Luton's poor air quality a key part of council's 'Local Transport Plan'

The strategy is part of the council's ambition to be net zero carbon by 2040, in addition to eradicating poverty.

A key part of the strategy is tackling the town's poor air quality - with Luton coming bottom of two prominent air surveys earlier this year (see here and here). The council seeks to encourage more active travel and public transport for local journeys in order to improve public health.

The strategy will also support the council’s existing Local Development Plan. This will aim to ensure planned developments around the town are sustainable, with infrastructure linking them to existing neighbourhoods and other key areas such as the town centre and rail stations.

Cllr Paul Castleman, portfolio holder for planning and transport, said: “We are required under the Transport Act 2000 to prepare a long-term transport strategy and we’d really like to hear people’s views on it. Hearing what people think is even more important now because of the potential impacts of a post-Covid change in attitude to travel.

"For example, we know that around 55% of journeys to work in Luton taken are under 5km and we want to see a reduction in unnecessary car use.

“It covers all types of transport including public transport, walking, cycling, cars and freight and summarises the approach relating to each of the themes, of reducing carbon emission, reducing poverty and ensuring links with development, with particular regard to the Luton Local Plan.”

The survey runs until Monday, November 16 and can be viewed at:

https://engage.luton.gov.uk/planning-transport-parking-highways/copy-of-luton-transport-plan-consultation/