Let’s Talk About Transport Launch of Local Transport Plan Core Strategy
Cheshire West and Chester Council has officially adopted and launched the borough’s new Local Transport Plan (LTP4), setting out a major shift in how people and goods will move around the borough over the next 20 years.
Councillor Karen Shore, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways (including Waste) said:
LTP4 sets out a bold, long‑term transformation of how we travel, putting people, communities and climate at the centre. Our vision is for a fair and sustainable transport system which enables a stronger, thriving future. People told us they want better choices and transport they can rely on. We’ve listened, and this Plan sets out a new approach to deliver safer streets, stronger communities, better access to jobs and services, and a transport system which helps businesses thrive. Nearly eight in ten people told us they support the approaches in LTP4, and almost three‑quarters said the changes we’re proposing would have a positive impact on their daily life.
More than 2,000 residents, businesses and community groups took part in the consultation, and they were clear: they want change that is real, visible and fair. Key challenges highlighted include poor connectivity affecting businesses, the need for better access to town centres and industrial areas, isolation in rural communities, and a lack of affordable travel options for young people. Many residents said they would like to walk, wheel, cycle or use public transport more, but the connections simply aren’t there yet. This was summed up by one recurring comment: ‘I’d love to, but I can’t.’ Fairness also came through strongly, with people highlighting barriers linked to income, disability, and rural access.
In response, the Plan is built around seven core priorities that focus on giving people better choices, improving streets and public spaces, tackling climate challenges, and creating a transport system that works for every community. It reflects the Department for Transport’s new national guidance on how local transport plans should be developed.
The launch of LTP4 is just the beginning. Over the coming months, the Council will work with communities, partners and the new Mayoral Combined Authority to turn the vision into visible improvements on the ground. The next phase will include developing more detailed policy, a series of area‑based movement plans, and a clear implementation plan, setting out what will be delivered and when. Together, these steps will translate communities’ priorities into real change across the borough. As part of this, the Plan commits major investment in maintaining and improving the borough’s roads. Through the new multi‑year Local Transport Delivery Plan agreed by Cabinet, funding is in place for resurfacing, drainage works, street lighting, footways, bridges and tackling potholes.
Added Councillor Shore:
Devolution gives us a huge opportunity to secure investment, strengthen regional transport links and deliver improvements faster. LTP4 puts us in the best position to shape regional priorities and make sure Cheshire West and Chester gets the modern, reliable and sustainable transport network our communities deserve
For more information Transport Strategy