Imagine life if there was a reliable, regular, modern bus service, with everyone living no more than ten minutes walk from their local bus stop, and where villages and rural communities have at least an hourly service, through into the evenings, 7 days a week.
Think what a relief it would be if we didn’t need to rely on cars, and when we do drive, the roads are well maintained, safe, clear and there is adequate free parking.
Imagine what it would be like if every local route had a cycle friendly option, on the road, beside it or newly created and distinct, with bike provision and maintenance available cheaply, locally; and where pedestrians can walk safely on broad pavements, or safe and well lit paths.
And imagine that there were reliable train and bus services to Bristol, Cheltenham and beyond – at affordable prices, with discounts for those who need the support.
I don’t think that any of the above is too much to ask for. It’s just a question of priorities, and the powers that be having a vision and committing to deliver it.
The government is beginning to address this, but local transport policy is currently the responsibility of Gloucestershire County Council – who are at the start of a consultation process as they draw up a new Local Transport Plan.
Please – however you move around the constituency – think how you would like it to be, fill in their online consultation, and if you can, visit one of the drop ins over the next few weeks. If you don’t ask…
