Thousands of people across the region have had their say on the first region-wide Transport Plan. As the consultation draws to a close this week (14 January 2021), there’s still time to share your views on the ambitious strategy for the transport network.

The North East Transport Plan sets out hundreds of regional transport schemes, objectives and policies which will drive major change across the network up to 2035. The draft strategy includes an initial £6.1bn worth of transformative transport projects, an investment which is expected to grow as the live programme of schemes develops over time.

The Plan covers the seven local authority areas, covering our two combined authorities: The North East Combined Authority (Durham, Gateshead, South Tyneside and Sunderland), and The North of Tyne Combined Authority (Newcastle upon Tyne, North Tyneside and Northumberland).

Members of the public are urged to have their say before the consultation closes. Those wishing to take part can fill in an online survey via www.transportnortheast.gov.uk/transportplan, email their comments to transportplan@transportnortheast.gov.uk or call 0191 433 2973 (Monday-Thursday 9am-4.30pm) to share their views.

Cllr Martin Gannon, Chair of the Joint Transport Committee, said: “We’ve heard from thousands of individuals, groups and organisations from across the North East and beyond as part of this consultation. I’d like to thank people for getting involved, we know that transport is critical to the future success of our region and I’m pleased so many people have grasped this opportunity for change and provided their views.

“Of course, there’s still time to get involved this week before the consultation closes on 14 January. If we’re successful in achieving the funds required to deliver this remarkable programme it will be game-changing for our region and how we travel on a daily basis. If you’d like to see major improvements across public transport, our road network or ways we walk and cycle for example, now is the time to share your thoughts with us.”

To find out more visit www.transportnortheast.gov.uk/transportplan