Wiltshire Sustainable Transport Forum launched to shape local travel future
New platform aims to enhance travel systems across the Wiltshire region
Wiltshire Council has initiated the Wiltshire Sustainable Transport Forum, marking a first-time collaboration between transport providers, community groups, businesses and public sector partners to develop a cleaner, safer and more sustainable transport framework for the county.
The forum offers a dedicated platform for planning, funding, and delivering transport solutions with a focus on active travel, public transport, and low-carbon options.
It aligns with Wiltshire Council's wider objectives concerning road safety, public health, congestion reduction, air quality improvement, and climate change mitigation.
At the first meeting, members were briefed on the forum's mission and working methods.
Updates were shared on significant programmes like Local Transport Plan 4 (LTP4), electric vehicle infrastructure, active travel schemes, bus service enhancements, and the School Streets pilot programme.
Discussions were held to identify challenges, opportunities, and priority areas for future collaborative efforts.
Though advisory rather than decision-making, the forum intends to draw insights from government bodies, transport operators, community groups, sustainability organisations, and local businesses.
Its recommendations aim to shape the council's transport policies, funding strategies, and delivery plans.
By promoting collaboration and sharing evidence, data, and community feedback, the forum aspires to ensure that transport investments in Wiltshire are inclusive, accessible, and in line with the council's Local Transport Plan, Vision Zero, and Net Zero goals.
The Wiltshire Sustainable Transport Forum will continue meeting in the following months and years to assess progress, exchange best practices, and direct future sustainable transport strategies in the region.
Cllr Martin Smith, the Cabinet Member for Highways, Streetscene, and Flooding, said: “This new forum is about bringing people together to help shape a transport system that works for Wiltshire, now and in the future.
By working with partners and communities from the outset, we can develop solutions that support cleaner air, safer streets, and more sustainable travel choices, while making best use of available funding. This inaugural meeting is the first step in what will be an ongoing programme of collaboration.”