Author Description

This report sets out the progress made towards delivery of the Government's transport targets over the last 18 months, since its 10 Year Plan for transport (ISBN 1851124136) came into effect. It identifies key transport problems and looks at the strategy for planned improvements to address these issues over the next few years. Topics discussed include: the strategic road network; the rail network; local transport plans; transport in London; and sustainable transport. Following the Government's 2002 Spending Review, the overall total of public and private funding over the 10 Year Plan period is £181 billion. (This figure excludes public expenditure which directly supports private investment, such as the PPP for London Underground). The report acknowledges that the original targets for reductions in the level of traffic congestion underestimated the scale of the problem and will need to be reviewed. Railway passenger use fell following the Hatfield accident, but has since recovered, whilst rail freight increased by 7 per cent during 2001/02. Measures to address rail safety and infrastructure issues and the role of the Strategic Rail Authority are discussed, including a new franchising policy for train operating companies.