There was a time a few years ago where stories about various towns and cities across the UK wanted a tram network to help alleviate congestion, and in the vast majority of cases nothing has happened since the initial \u201cambitious plans\u201d were announced. Although these stories have become less regular recently you still get the odd one with the latest city to join the bandwagon being Stoke-on-Trent.<\/p>\n
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In a press statement released in October \u2013 which contains the predictable words \u201cambitious plans\u201d! \u2013 the City of Stoke-on-Trent are now seeking residents views on their new transport strategy which is said to revolutionise transport in the city and surrounding areas. The laudable aims of the strategy are to delivery a better connected city which would cut down journey times, reduce congestion and increase social mobility.<\/p>\n
Described as the flagship part of the plans is a plan for a Very Light Rail network which would connect the six towns of Stoke-on-Trent via three main lines \u2013 the Northern line, the Central line and the Southern line.<\/p>\n
These three lines would serve the following areas:<\/p>\n
A public consultation into the transport strategy \u2013 which would also see major improvements to bus services and other public transport, two new railway stations and multi-modal hubs across the city \u2013 is now open until Wednesday 30th<\/sup> November.<\/p>\n Cllr Daniel Jellyman, cabinet member of regeneration, infrastructure and heritage, said: \u201cThe fact that we are refreshing our transport plan shows that we have the ambition to develop and deliver a reputable transport network for the whole of Stoke-on-Trent. Our transport strategy is a serious piece of work. It took years to get to this point and we have worked very hard on it, but it is not definitive and that is why we have launched our consultation. I would encourage all residents to have their say. The VLR network is a key part to this strategy. I believe this should have been done 15 years ago when Manchester and Birmingham were doing it, so I am very keen not to waste any more time. We have seen what other authorities are planning in the region, and we are very excited and inspired to put our own stamp on things for Stoke-on-Trent residents.\u201d<\/p>\n The aims of the transport strategy are as follows:<\/p>\n There was a time a few years ago where stories about various towns and cities across the UK wanted a tram network to help alleviate congestion, and in the vast majority of cases nothing has happened since the initial \u201cambitious … Continue reading \n