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11
Nov
Mayor targets reduction in ‘unnecessary' car journeys by 2050
The Mayor of York and North Yorkshire wants to reduce “unnecessary car dependency” in the region as part of a wide ranging transport plan.
Labour’s David Skaith has set out to tackle the issue as part of his local transport plan, which seeks to improve walking, cycling and public transport.
The target, which has received the backing of North Yorkshire Council, aims to reduce the number of private car journeys in York and North Yorkshire from 66% to 50% by 2050.
According to the mayor’s local transport plan, the move will help to meet Mr Skaith’s ambitions to create spaces where people can “live healthy, connected and fulfilling lives" and create safer neighbourhoods.
It says:
To get there, we need to reduce dependence on cars and make walking, wheeling and cycling the easiest and most attractive choices for everyday journeys and leisure. We already have a strong foundation: 80% of journeys under one mile are walked, wheeled or cycled. But we want to go further and tackle the remaining short trips still made by car.
The plan goes on to add that it intends to reduce unnecessary car journeys by “improving sustainable alternatives, managing parking, supporting electric vehicle charging, improving road safety, maintaining road assets and using a user hierarchy that prioritises walking and wheeling, followed by cycling, public transport and then private motor traffic”.
However, the plan acknowledges that the car will “continue to play an important role” for people in rural areas and for disabled people.
The targets for walking, cycling, public transport and private car, as included in the mayor's local transport plan.
Meanwhile, North Yorkshire Council has backed the move towards fewer unnecessary car journeys.
In a report due before a corporate director and executive member for highways meeting on Thursday (November 12), Keisha Moore, senior transport planning officer, said the council supported the “long-term aspiration” of the move.
But, the council warned that the target would require significant investment.
Ms Moore said:
However, it is noted that achieving this outcome will require significant and sustained investment in active travel, public transport and demand management measures, alongside continued recognition that private car travel will remain an important means of accessing services, employment and opportunities in many parts of rural and coastal North Yorkshire.
The mayor’s local transport plan is currently out for public consultation until November 18. People can have their say on the plan here.
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