Mr Jones will tell the Welsh Local Government Association’s Transport Conference in Cardiff City Hall that the Welsh Assembly Government’s aims to see increased walking and cycling, greater use of public transport and greater fuel efficiency on the roads.
Plans based on the Wales Transport Strategy are helping the country to move to a ‘carbon reduction pathway’ – by encouraging new technology, a shift in the mode of transport used and behavioural change, the Deputy First Minister will say.
The plans support the goal set by the One Wales agreement of curbing carbon emissions by 3% a year.
A new approach signalled by the recently published “Economic Renewal: a new direction”, aims at reducing duplication, identifying efficiency savings and pooling resources, says Mr Jones, who is Minister for the Economy and Transport.
“We want to work in partnership with local authorities and the private sector to maximise the effectiveness of the limited resources available.
“We intend to reduce the number of transport funding streams that local authorities bid into, simplifying the processes involved and aligning delivery with the Regional Transport Plans.”
The Assembly Government is already working closely with local authorities and the rail industry to take forward the £40 million Wales Enhanced Station Improvement Programme which was recently approved for EU funding.
“A review of Transport Planning and Delivery has confirmed the important role of both the transport consortia and local authorities in overseeing delivery of the Regional Transport Plans.”
“I have also just started consultation on changes to our Trunk Road Agencies. The review has confirmed that our public sector model offers good value for money but we feel there are still opportunities for further efficiencies – hence the recommendation to reduce the number of agencies from three to two.”
The Deputy First Minister will say that a threatened 40 per cent cut in the Welsh Assembly Government’s capital budget in real terms over the next four years is particularly unwelcome news for transport investment.
“This proposed cut underlines how important it is to get a fair funding formula for Wales – which will help us help you”
Local authorities in South East Wales are again offering a cash incentive to organisations looking to develop sustainable travel projects
Coleg Morgannwg has started its journey on the Welsh Travel Plan Awards scheme which recognises best practice and excellence in Travel Planning
World renowned fashion designer opens Merthyr's new route
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