PARLIAMENTARY WRITTEN QUESTION
Transport and Planning Permission (30 June 2021)

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether he has made recent representations to Ministerial colleagues in the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government to identify opportunities for (a) combined transport and planning policies and (b) 20-minute walkable neighbourhoods to increase walking, cycling and reduce car usage.

Asked by:
Feryal Clark (Labour)

The Department is working closely with the Ministry for Housing Communities and Local Government to ensure the transport and spatial planning systems are better aligned and actively promote sustainable transport options. The two Departments are also considering how we ensure we deliver on our commitment in Gear Change and ensure that walking, cycling and public transport are the first choice for journeys in new developments. As part of this, Active Travel England, once established, will be a statutory consultee in the planning system. Officials from my Department are in contact with MHCLG officials to determine the scope of this involvement.

Additionally, as set out in the Prime Minister’s July 2020 Gear Change plan, the Department is investing an unprecedented £2 billion in active travel schemes in England over the course of this Parliament. This is the biggest ever boost for cycling and walking and the funding will be spent on a wide range of measures.

Answered by:
Chris Heaton-Harris (Conservative)
9 July 2021