Winchester travel and transport blueprint set for approval
A vision to tackle travel and transport issues around Winchester for decades to come is set to be approved by the city council.
The Winchester Movement Strategy lays out how traffic and sustainable transport will flow though the city and help ease congestion and pollution.
Measures included in the action plan include promoting greater use of public transport, increasing park and ride capacity to encourage drivers to park outside the city, and reallocating road space for pedestrians and cyclists.
It is the culmination of 18 months’ work between the city and county council, which including comprehensive consultation and traffic modelling.
Winchester City Council’s Cabinet will discuss the plan on March 25.
Jan Warwick, Portfolio Holder for the Environment, said:
“Our Movement Strategy is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve air quality and reduce congestion in the city. We have already committed money in this year’s budget to make a start on delivering this important project.”
The strategy focuses on three key priorities - reducing city centre traffic, supporting healthier lifestyles and supporting sustainable growth.
Cllr Rob Humby, Hampshire County Council’s Executive Member for Environment and Transport, said:
“Our aim is to ensure Winchester continues to thrive while protecting the character of the city. We want to see a future where there is less traffic but more activity in the town centre, better air quality and more travel options for bus, walking or cycling.
“We’ve now completed significant consultation and data gathering to develop this strategy with a focus on increasing park and ride provision, improving bus services, enhancing the public spaces and putting in place measures to encourage more walking and cycling.
“I’m grateful for the people and groups who have taken the time to engage with us, and hope they will agree this is a bold plan for the future of Winchester.”
Hampshire County Council will consider adopting the strategy in April.