§ Lady HermonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the progress being made on the implementation of a sustainable transport plan for Northern Ireland. [176542]
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§ Mr. SpellarThe Regional Transportation Strategy for Northern Ireland 2002–2012 sets out a strategic framework for the future planning, funding and delivery of an integrated, sustainable transport system for the region. The Transportation Vision of the RTS is
To have a modern, sustainable, safe transportation system which benefits society, the economy and the environment and which actively contributes to social inclusion and everyone's quality of life.The Strategy seeks to address the effect of years of under-investment in transportation. It tackles deficiencies in the current transportation systems to make best use of existing assets and introduces a number of important enhancements to the infrastructure and services. At the same time, programmes have been initiated to promote sustainable transport, such as walking, cycling and public transport, and to encourage modes of travel other than private car for appropriate journeys.
An Annual Monitoring Report for 2003–04 on the progress to date in implementing the RTS is currently being prepared and will be published in September. Copies of the Report will be made available in the Library.