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Dorset residents help shape future for local transport

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Image from Pixabay

Data collected in early 2024 has been released and will help Dorset Council and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council shape a new local transport plan (LTP).

Photo of bus taken by Cat Lindsay

The feedback and experiences of residents, businesses and visitors on travel and transport were published yesterday evening.

The data has set out a vision for transport and travel infrastructure across the county.

The last plan was published in 2011, so the new LTP will aim to address current transport needs and prioritise future investments.

The survey had over 3,000 responses and 300 people attended events across the country, more than 90 connected groups, representing local communities, people with mobility needs, health providers and transport operators also provided valuable input.

People involved told the council their wants for the community, these included:

  • Public transport does not meet people’s needs including frequency, affordability and accessibility
  • Mobility hubs have great potential to transform our transport system for the better
  • They have a strong desire for more well-connected walking, wheeling and cycling networks
  • Better transport connections between towns and villages to combat isolation and provide travel choice
  • Access to a car is important to maintaining independence
  • The lack of transport options is contributing to declining mental health, particularly among the older population in rural areas
  • Congestion is an ongoing problem across urban areas during the summer season and peak times of day
  • Understanding the specific needs to different groups of people is key to removing barriers and creating fair access to transport for all
  • They are willing to change travel behaviour, but alternatives must be in place for people to make the change
  • The movement of people and goods should be more efficient to benefit the economy and the environment

This feedback is what the councils are using to produce a new transport plan which will run until 2040.

Public consultation on the draft strategy and implementation plan will take place in late summer to early autumn 2025.