Somerset Council’s Transport Plan (Draft for consultation)

 

The consultation period has recently been extended until September 28^th 2025.

We would urge you to read Somerset Council’s Draft Transport Plan and to comment.

• The draft Transport Plan can be found here https://somersetcouncil.citizenspace.com/active-travel/copy-of-local-transport-plan-2025/
• The questionnaire to be completed about the Draft Transport Plan can be found here
  https://somersetcouncil.citizenspace.com/active-travel/copy-of-local-transport-plan-2025/consultation/intro/

 

Undoubtedly, there is much to be welcomed in the Draft Transport Plan.

 

The Draft Transport Plan identifies the challenges facing by Somerset very well and very succinctly. The issue is how most effectively to address them.

The Draft Transport Plan states:

 

• 65% of Somerset emissions are from cars. 35% from goods vehicles.
  • Hence there is a need to encourage a modal shift from cars to more sustainable transport modes like active travel and public transport.
• 70% of emissions on journeys of more than 5 miles and less than 50 miles.
  Whilst active travel is a good alternative for shorter journey, not many of us are going to walk or bike on journeys of more than 5 miles … especially in all weathers!
  • Hence if we are going to achieve a modal shift from cars then it is going by bus.

Bus travel is not currently given the priority in this Draft Transport Plan that it warrants in terms of how a modal switch from cars to buses will help tackle pollution, congestion and carbon emissions in Somerset. 

 

We would urge you to make this comment in your submission.