Government unveils new plan to improve roads… by encouraging you to stop driving New ‘Better Connected’ strategy aims to make public transport “the cheapest and most convenient option for the majority of local trips” The Government has unveiled its ‘Better Connected’ strategy for UK transport. The multi-faceted plan aims to modernise mobility by making it greener, safer and more affordable, with a focus on encouraging people to step out of their cars and onto public transport. As part of the proposal, the Department for Transport said: “To reduce the amount of congestion on roads, public transport should be the cheapest and most convenient option for the majority of local trips. For journeys that need a car, electric vehicles play a role in reducing emissions and improving local air quality.” To make public transport more appealing, the Government highlights its priority to simplify payments for trains, trams and buses. The newly nationalised Great British Rail aims to do away with the necessity of split fares in order to get the cheapest possible ticket, while cities and local regions will be provided support with implementing pay-as-you-go and mobile offerings as alternatives to traditional contactless payments. Additional funding will also be allocated to make journeys more reliable. Google Maps integration will eventually enable bus passengers to track exactly where their bus is as they wait, plus AI will be used to streamline and perfect timetables. Additionally, the Accessible Travel Charter will help ensure those with a disability or mobility restrictions get access to the transport they require, whether that’s via step-free access to platforms, or sufficient training for staff. It’s hoped that changes such as these will encourage drivers to make greater usage of public transport which could then, in theory, push down prices as demand increases. Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander MP, said