Institution responds to National Infrastructure Commission report on HS3 rail links

The Institution’s Philippa Oldham says an integrated approach to transport would better serve passengers and be a more efficient use of business and infrastructure

Philippa Oldham, Head of Transport at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, said:

“The report makes some welcome recommendations, especially highlighting the importance of improved transport links in Northern England.  

“What is important is that we make sure all these investments fit within a wider integrated transport strategy. At the moment major infrastructure projects are being developed in isolation, whereas a holistic approach would better serve passengers and businesses more efficiently.

“In our Integrated Transport policy statement, we discuss modal shift, the process of replacing one means of transport with another to reduce congestion.

“We suggest that government departments collaboratively develop a strategy to incentivise and support the private sector, eliminating practices that create congestion on the public transport network, while it remains quiet at other times.”