Mayor's Roads Task Force calls for 'next generation' travel improvements

Date: 10/7/2013

The Mayor's (RTF) Roads Task Force has outlined its vision for the future of transport in London, emphasising the importance of upgrades to roads and public space.

In a report published today (July 10th), the body said improvement work is essential to ensure the capital is able to cope with the major population growth that is expected to take place in the city in the coming years.

According to the RTF, one of the biggest challenges is finding innovative solutions that enhance travel in London while at the same time safeguard its public spaces - a factor that it says other world cities are increasingly focusing on.

Indeed, as part of its proposals, the report suggests the introduction of new road tunnels that could create better surface space for walking and cycling - as well as making the city a more accessible place for pedestrians.

Commenting on the RTF's findings, Mayor Boris Johnson said: "I welcome the Roads Task Force report and the bold approach it proposes for London's 21st century roads and streets.

"It is in tune with my 2020 Vision, our plans on cycling and for investment in London's roads and streets.

"For this great city to retain its global pre-eminence, it is essential we continue to invest and have the courage and vision to develop and drive forward innovative solutions."

Among the wide raft of suggestions made by the RTF, smarter charging for the use of road space and more dedicated cycling lanes were touted as being important to the future of London's transport infrastructure.

Additionally, new river crossings and a wider rollout of intelligent systems in traffic signals were proposed in order to ease congestion, while calls were also made for the introduction of more 20mph zones.  

Posted by Mary Treen

Transport News, Transport Consulting News and TRL Ltd