London's 'world class' transport network requires sustained investment, says study

Date: 19/3/2013

London's transport network requires sustained investment in the coming years to maintain the standard of service it offers throughout the capital, a new report has claimed.

The study - World Class? London's Transport: Progress and Future Challenges - was commissioned by Siemens and penned by Professor David Begg, who used data gathered from a survey of 3,500 London transport professionals.

According to the conclusions, policies on everything from cycling and walking to public services and private vehicle use will have to adapt in order to cope with the city's rising population.

Indeed, although the report labels the capital's transport infrastructure as "world class," it says that continued improvements must be made if it is to maintain such a rating.

However, Professor Begg highlighted the record high performance of the Tube and the "good progress" made in upgrading the 150-year-old system as an example of London's strong credentials - as well as the transformation of the London Overground network.

The way that the transport system coped with the demands of London 2012 and the extensive nature of bus services were also praised, while the emphasis on customer information, marketing and ticketing were commended too.

But particular concerns were raised over cycling in the capital - travel by bicycle only makes up two per cent of all journeys, although cyclists account for 20 per cent of road casualties.

"Over the past 12 years there has been a transformation in the quality and capacity of transport across the capital and despite room for improvement in some areas, transport services in the capital are now running at a very high standard," Professor Begg concluded.

"Continued investment in London's world class transport system is imperative to prevent any decline."

The Professor added that policies should be introduced to encourage people to use more sustainable modes of transport in London, and that efforts to reduce overall traffic need to continue.

Posted by Sarah Bailey

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