PROPOSALS to make public transport easier for people to use will be vital for supporting growth, Lichfield’s MP has said.
The Government’s new plans will look to improve contactless “tap-and-go” travel on trains and buses across the country.
There will also be a Google Maps partnership to track rural services and a national parking platform for payments.
Lichfield’s Labour MP Dave Robertson said the strategy would make a real difference for local residents:
“Improving how people move around our towns and villages is vital for supporting local growth and making everyday life easier.
“The Government’s Better Connected strategy is a positive step, giving local leaders the tools to join up buses, trains and other transport so passengers can enjoy seamless tap‑and‑go journeys without juggling multiple tickets or apps.
“It’s also encouraging to see the expansion of the National Parking Platform, which will end the hassle of switching between different parking apps.
“Together, these changes can make local journeys smoother and better connected for everyone.”
While local leaders will continue to decide whether to invest in contactless, tap-and-go travel, the Government says it has made it easier than ever by providing back-end technical support and long-term funding for a roll-out.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said:
“For too long, getting from A to B has been more complicated than it needs to be.
“People want journeys to be easy and reliable. They want to be able to get off a train and straight on to a bus without having to battle through a confusing system or buy separate tickets for each part of their journey.
“That’s why we’re giving local leaders the powers to build transport networks that are simpler, more accessible and better connected, improving everyday journeys and supporting growth in every corner of the country.”
