Government urged to promote public transport as new campaign launches in London
Footfall in the capital dropped by nearly 50% last year
Last updated 19th May 2021
We're told getting people back onto buses and tubes will be vital to London's recovery following the pandemic.
Campaign for Better Transport's launching a campaign today calling on the government to promote the safety of services - and introduce a national scheme of discounted fares.
Footfall in the capital dropped by nearly 50-percent last year.
Former MP Norman Baker advises the group: "It's a great concerns that if we don't have people using public transport or feel confident in doing so, then they will not access central London. And central London's the place in Britain that is most vulnerable to public transport not recovering."
The Way Forward campaign is calling on the Government to support public transport by actively encouraging people to use buses, trains, coaches and trams as restrictions ease, and introducing an incentive scheme to help boost passenger numbers as part of a national plan to place public transport at the heart of a green recovery.
Paul Tuohy, Chief Executive of Campaign for Better Transport, said:
“The events of the last year have made people less confident about using public transport, but as restrictions continue to ease, we all need to start getting back on board. That’s why we’ve launched this campaign to urge the Government to reassure people that public transport is safe again and to introduce a national scheme of discounted fares to encourage people to use it. By getting back on board we can all help to reduce congestion, protect the environment and boost the economy in a way that is fair and sustainable.”
A Department for Transport spokesperson said:
“This Government has provided an unprecedented level of support for public transport throughout the pandemic. This includes roughly £12 billion to ensure our rail network keeps running, over £1 billion for local bus services and nearly £200 million for light rail systems across the country.
“When travelling on public transport passengers should wear a face covering unless exempt, sanitise their hands regularly, maintain social distance and open windows where possible. We’re working with industry to ensure passengers know what steps they need to take to travel safely and confidently in the coming months.”