Government funding is being committed to the improvement of rural transport, thanks to investment announced today.
As part of the Rural Transport Accelerator Fund, £1.2 million is being split across eight projects that will see local authorities partnering with small businesses to develop innovative transport concepts. The aim of these projects will be to drive improvements in community wellbeing, support rural jobs, and kickstarting local economies.
This year’s scheme required projects to present solutions to a range of challenges that are faced in rural communities, with these including:
- The importance of rural roads for everyday journeys
- Driving towards a sustainable future
- Enabling innovation in rural mobility
- Advancements in agricultural transportation
- Open challenge – building communities and enabling the adoption of technology in rural areas
Milton Keynes County Council will benefit from investment to trial the installation of new drainage systems that will use recycled car tyres, whilst Norfolk County Council will trial the use of data insights to support the creation of a behavioural travel modal that will support decision making.
Alongside those winners, other projects will see the barriers to accessing health services in Fife mapped out, as well as the development of a digital tool to offer transport options for those without access to a car in Warwickshire.
Lilian Greenwood, Future of Roads Minister, said:
“People who live in rural areas have unique needs when it comes to transport and we’re always looking for ways to improve connections across the country.
“Through our funding, these projects will shake up the way rural transport is delivered, using the latest innovations to help residents see their friends and family, do their weekly food shop or attend hospital appointments.”
Grant funding will be delivered in partnership with the Connected Places Catapult.
Image credit: iStock
