New development should help to create places that connect with each other sustainably, providing the right conditions to encourage walking, cycling and the use of public transport.
(Planning Policy Guidance Note13)

Background

It is widely agreed that living conditions in Nottinghamshire are being steadily eroded by high levels of congestion and pollution associated with traffic growth.  A sustainable approach to transport can alleviate this by discouraging reliance upon private motor vehicles and giving preference to other modes of travel.  The successful integration of transport and land use planning is crucial to this process.

Location is a key factor in determining how much realistic transport choice can be offered by a development site. Lack of access has a significant role in isolating certain sections of the population and thus diminishing their quality of life.

In accordance with government policy, local authorities have made considerable investment in public transport, cycling and walking - such as the Nottingham Express Transit (tram), bus quality partnerships, the Robin Hood railway line, cycle routes and town centre pedestrian improvements. It is expected that larger sized new developments will continue to contribute to this investment, based on the outcomes of Transport Assessments and linked to the preparation of Travel Plans. Such plans will help ensure that transport choices are continually available to site users.

A variety of methods of managing and calming traffic have evolved, especially within residential areas or through villages, and much attention has been given to parking problems. New initiatives to influence driving habits are emerging; for example, a ride sharing scheme has been launched in Bassetlaw and a workplace parking levy is under consideration by the City Council.

Despite progressive improvements in vehicle efficiency, energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions continue to rise at a similar rate to vehicle use.

Forces for change

• The level of UK carbon dioxide emissions from road transport - the fastest growing contributor to climate change (now accounting for some 25% of all carbon dioxide emissions).
  
• Approximately 80 people are killed each year in road accidents in Nottinghamshire (including the City).
  
• Congestion and unreliability of journeys which add to the costs of business, undermining competitiveness, especially in our towns and cities where traffic is most intense.
  
• Legislation and Government led initiatives that prompt the use of lower carbon fuels and more efficient vehicles.
  
• Increased concern about local air quality, especially in relation to children, the elderly and those suffering from respiratory disease.
  
• Government has set exacting targets for reducing congestion and accidents, and increasing public transport use. The funding available to local authorities to improve local transport provision depends on meeting their share of the targets.