Issue - meetings

Resolved: That the Committee notes the updates provided in this report and endorses the next steps set out in paragraph 2.36.

Members considered a report which [provided an overview the implications of the COVID 19 emergency on Combined Authority transport policies.

Members made the follwing comments:

·       That the current lockdown offered an opportunity for walking and cycling and some temporary schemes were ready to be put into place.

·       Members discussed the need for and provision of facemasks on public transport.

·       The role of the Economic recovery board in the region’s response to the pandemic and the need for close working with Transport Committee

·       The importance of the provision of broadband for home working – rural areas need access to a high quality broadband.

·       That it was vital to link transport networks to skills hubs to ensure connectivity between education / skills network to residential areas.

·       The change in road usage due to home working and the extent to which this may continue.

·       Members discussed the air quality impact  with there being fewer cars on roads in total but more vans for home deliveries. Members noted that it would be useful to monitor the changes in air quality throughout the lockdown.

·       That it would be useful for the Combined Authoirty and the districts to share best practice between the districts on temporary arrangements for cycling and walking.

Resolved: That the Committee notes the updates provided in this report and endorses the next steps set out in paragraph 2.36.