Rural Transport Group Launch

It is time to change the urban vantage point to one of the Rural Community.

​For too long, national transport policy has been written by people in cities, for people in cities.

This week in Parliament, I launched the Rural Transport Group (RTG) to demand an end to the "second-class" treatment of our countryside and coasts.

​I am proud to be chairing this group to become the definitive voice for rural communities. I am leading this initiative on behalf of our elected Mayors, working with the full support of the Department for Transport to ensure our voices are heard at the very heart of government.

What we are fighting for:

​Fair Funding: Ending the urban bias in how investment is allocated.

​Better Connections: Reversing the decline in bus services and fixing the digital gaps that hold us back.

​Rural England contributes a massive £259 billion to our economy. We provide the nation's food and energy—and it is time we were treated like the powerhouse we are.

We are moving beyond talk. With the support of the DfT and my fellow Mayors, we are turning evidence into funded solutions for our residents.

​Our villages and coastal towns are not "on the periphery." They are central to our nation’s resilience and future growth. It is time for a transport system that works for everyone, regardless of their postcode.

​When our rural communities thrive, Great Britain prospers!   

A big shout out and thank you to Richard Tice for hosting the launch in Parliament.