North East Combined Authority Local Transport Plan

Thursday 19-12-2024 - 13:56

North East Transport Plan and How It Could Benefit Students

By President: Activities - Prince Ikechi

The North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, is leading the development of the new Local Transport Plan for our region. The Mayor’s vision is for a green, integrated transport system that works for all. The Consultation for the North East Combined Authority (NECA) Local Transport Plan is open with invitation to all to complete the online survey.

The plan is a significant opportunity to improve the accessibility, affordability, and sustainability of transportation across the North East region. Students as a key demographic group in the region, stand to benefit greatly from the proposed enhancements.

A Metro station sign

Potential Benefits for Students

Some of the potential key benefits for students are:

  1. Affordable Travel Options
    • The plan emphasises creating cost-effective travel solutions, which could lead to discounted fare schemes for students. This initiative would alleviate the financial burden of commuting, especially during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
  2. Improved Public Transport Accessibility
    • Investments in expanded and more frequent bus and rail services to ensure students can access university campuses and other essential services efficiently, reducing time spent waiting or travelling.
    • Enhanced transport connectivity will allow students to commute from remote areas to attend universities and colleges more easily.
  3. Sustainable and Green Travel Solutions
    • The plan prioritises sustainable modes of transport, such as cycling and walking, supported by new infrastructure like bike lanes and pedestrian pathways.
    • Students can contribute to reducing carbon footprints by adopting eco-friendly commuting options, in line with regional and institutional climate goals.
  4. Enhanced Safety and Accessibility
    • The introduction of well-lit, accessible transport hubs and pathways ensures safe travel, especially for late-night commuters after classes or social events.
    • Improvements in accessibility to cater to students with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity within the transport system.
  5. Digital Integration and Smart Ticketing
    • The plan envisions smart ticketing systems that integrate bus, metro, and rail travel into one seamless payment method.
    • Students will benefit from the convenience of managing travel digitally, with potential price capped for student travel deals.

Advocacy for Student Transport Priorities

To ensure the Local Transport Plan meets student needs, Your SU, through myself as President: Activities and in affiliation with the coalition of North East Students’ Unions, are collaborating with the North East Mayor to:

  • Advocate for affordable student travel passes
  • Engage in consultations to highlight the unique transportation challenges faced by students
  • Promote the importance of linking transport improvements with academic schedules and locations

In Conclusion

The NECA Local Transport Plan represents a transformative vision for transportation in the region. For students, the potential benefits extend beyond convenience to include financial savings, environmental responsibility, and enhanced safety. By working together, students, institutions, and local authorities can make these improvements a reality, fostering a more connected and student-friendly North East.

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