Xavier Brice, Sustrans CEO, responds to the Queen's Speech made on 10 May, 2022.
Sustrans CEO Xavier Brice said:
“With the rising cost of living and worsening inequality, it is critical that the Government is addressing the planning system with the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill.
“Planning desperately needs to be repurposed to deliver net-zero, well designed and affordable places to live.
“The 20-minute neighbourhood concept should be embedded at the heart of planning national and locally, so that people are able to reach the things they need within a short walk of their home and are not dependent on the car for everyday needs.
“We are also pleased to see a Transport Bill in the Queen’s Speech.
“Great British Railways should be mandated to maintain and actively enhance any active travel infrastructure, particularly crossings of the railway, as part of any upgrade or project and this should be included in the Bill.”