A Step Closer to £15million Transport Improvement Fund

Bournemouth, Poole and Dorset are in the running to receive £15million to improve the main east west transport corridor between Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch.

Earlier this year, the three Councils' bid was shortlisted along with twelve other local authority bids for the central government funding. Led by Bournemouth Borough Council, the three neighboring authorities have joined together in submitting a business case - ‘The 3 Towns corridor’ - which includes a package of measures to bring about changes in travel behaviour and greater use of more sustainable modes, such as walking, cycling and public transport, and to better manage traffic. Rather than large scale infrastructure, the Department for Transport guidance indicates bids should be targeted at projects to encourage carbon reduction and support the local economy.

Specific initiatives within the 3 Towns corridor bid include:

Bus priority at junctions Improvements to the cycle network Upgrading of all bus shelters along route to a consistent high quality Improvement of major bus hubs (including Sea View - Poole, Boscombe Bus Station, Somerford - Christchurch) Crossing facilities for pedestrians and cyclists Expansion of Smartcard ticketing for public transport Targeted travel planning for residents, major employers and educational establishments 'State of the art' traffic management systems Public realm improvements

The bid proposals are based on the findings of the recently completed Transport Study funded jointly by Poole, Bournemouth and Dorset Councils.

Ian Kalra, Transportation Services Manager for Bournemouth Council, said: “We are now one step closer in securing this significant investment to improve one of Dorset’s busiest transport routes. Over the last six months the three Councils have worked closely with our local transport partners as well as businesses, community groups and residents to ensure the Bid encompasses the needs of those who rely and use this vital transport corridor.

“The 3 Towns Corridor includes a package of measures across Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch which have been tailored to focus on projects that will enable and influence low carbon travel behaviour. For example the Bid contains projects that will improve walking and cycling facilities, improve the public transport service by supporting our partners to provide a more efficient and enhanced service, as well as improved traffic management projects.”

The successful Councils are due to be announced in June 2012.

Further details and a copy of the bid document can be found online at www.bournemouth.gov.uk/StreetsTransport/TransportPolicyGreenTravel/LSTF-bid/LocalSustainableTransportFundBid.aspx

The Department for Transport (DfT) has made available £560 million through the Local Sustainable Transport Fund (LSTF). This funding is being offered to help local transport authorities support the local economy and carbon reduction.

Source of this Article:

Bournemouth Borough Council (opens a new window)

By Peter Lozos

Posted: Wednesday 4 January 2012

Permalink: http://www.bournemouth2026.org/a-step-closer-to-15million-transport-improvement-fund

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