Objectives | Translating this vision into a set of regionally specific objectives that integrates spatial and transportation planning at the regional level, the RTS must seek: - to facilitate urban renaissance and foster social inclusion by rebalancing the structure and use of the transport system. In particular by bringing forward measures that encourage modal shift and significantly improve the attractiveness of local public transport services; - to reduce the wider environmental, health, and community impact associated with the transport system by bringing forward measures to positively manage the transport system in ways that reduce our dependence on the car; - to improve transport infrastructure within and to the Thames Gateway to maximise regeneration potential and encourage economic development; - to improve strategic road and rail links within and to the Western Policy Area to maintain economic success; - to improve road and rail links along the South Coast Corridor to improve spatial connectivity and realise economic opportunities to reduce disparities within the region; - to support economic development in East Kent through investment in improved accessibility; - to take forward transport infrastructure proposals required to support development in the growth areas of Milton Keynes and Ashford; - to develop road and rail links that improve inter and intra-regional connectivity whilst avoiding the need to interchange in London; - to improve and develop more sustainable transport connections to the region's key ports, airports and international rail stations as a basis for the enhancement of its gateway function to Europe and the rest of the world; - to facilitate urban renaissance and foster social inclusion by bringing forward measures that encourage modal shift, with particular emphasis given to significantly improving the attractiveness of local public transport services; - to reduce the wider environmental, health and community impact associated with the transport system by bringing forward measures to positively manage the transport system in urban areas that reduces our dependence on the private car. | (1) To support the spatial strategy of RPG10 - to help deliver the spatial strategy and service existing and new development efficiently and with an integrated approach - helping PUAs and other designated centres for growth function to enable them to maximise their potential as locations for sustainable growth - supporting regeneration and access to services and facilities - assisting the economy of peripheral parts of the region by reducing journey times and increasing the reliability of journey times (2) To reduce the impact of transport on the environment - improve the range of travel alternatives to the private car - reduce noise, pollution and impacts of congestion - introduce measures to encourage behavioural change (3) To secure improved accessibility to work, education, shopping leisure and services by public transport, walking and cycling - locating development at accessible locations with the potential to develop sustainable transport linkages - considering the impact of transport decisions on social inclusion (4) To create a modern, efficient and integrated transport system that will meet the demands of a dynamic regional economy, help overcome regional peripherality and meet all travel needs. | To integrate transport and land-use planning, in particular:- • To support regeneration and economic growth and in particular facilitate development in the main urban areas and regeneration priority areas identified in RSS • To support sustainable development • To reduce the need to travel, especially by car • To reduce the impact of traffic and travel on the environment • To improve access to opportunities in a manner that is equitable and socially inclusive Within the transport system itself: - • To integrate the operation of different transport modes and promote modal shift away from the car • To make efficient use of transport resources • To improve safety • To maximise the use of more energy efficient modes of travel, including cycling and walking • To assist in the achievement of the Government's local air quality targets • To increase the provision of safe traffic free networks for access on foot or cycle within and between town and countryside • To be affordable and achievable in practical terms |