Maree Todd urges Caithness people to take part in Scottish transport consultation
A north MSP is encouraging people to take part in a consultation on Scotland's transport options over the next 20 years.
Maree Todd, the SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, wants the public to engage in the second Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR2).
The consultation intends to gather views on the recommendations Transport Scotland are making on how to invest in Scotland’s transport system over the next two decades. The STPR2 recommendations identify where to invest to deliver the changes needed with a focus on sustainable transport options for individuals, families, communities and businesses.
Mrs Todd says the recommendations will make it easier for people to go about their daily lives and for businesses to access the transport system that Scotland will need to reduce inequalities; tackle climate action; help deliver inclusive economic growth and improve our health and wellbeing.
She said: "We know that sustainable and affordable transport options will play a crucial role in reducing Scotland’s carbon emissions and will be central to meeting our ambitious climate change targets. I recognise, however, that this will require significant work, particularly in the Highlands, where public transport options are currently lacking, and fares are often costly.
"I’m pleased to see that progress has been made in this area, with the Scottish Government extending free bus travel to all under 22s, helping to improve access to education, leisure, and work, while supporting the adoption of sustainable travel behaviours. This policy will benefit up to 930,000 young people in Scotland including many in my constituency."
Mrs Todd added: "We must go further, though. The STPR2 consultation aims to gather views on transport throughout Scotland, presenting an opportunity for people across the country to submit their views on transport. As a Highlands MSP, representing a vast and rural constituency, I’m keen to see the views of my constituents represented.
"Results from the consultation will be used as evidence base for future spending decisions on strategic transport investment by Scottish Ministers up to 2042 and will help to inform the development of future transport investment delivery plans."
The STPR2 consultation runs from 20 January to April 2022. To submit your views online, visit: transport.gov.scot/stpr2