Better connected: New strategy starts journey to improved transport links for Richmond

A bold new strategy to improve mobility throughout Richmond upon Thames by strengthening the borough’s transport networks has been launched by the Council.

The Transport Strategy 2040, officially unveiled last night (24 June), outlines a vision for Richmond over the next 14 years.

It includes public transport providing a more reliable and accessible travel option in all areas of the borough, residents being able to make local journeys by sustainable transport modes regardless of where they live, and the River Thames, major roads and railways no longer presenting disproportionate barriers to movement.

Councillor Alexander Ehmann, Deputy Leader and Chair of the Transport and Air Quality Committee, said: "This new strategy signals a turning point and marks the start of our journey towards better connectivity and more sustainable and reliable transport that all our residents can access.

"It has been directly shaped by the insight, knowledge and challenges of our residents, and we expect them to experience the improvements much sooner than 2040 – as soon as 2030 they should see tangible benefits."

The strategy sets out how the Council will work with and lobby organisations such as Network Rail and Transport for London to:

• Maintain and improve transport infrastructure
• Help enable sustainable housing and economic growth
• Improve accessibility and reduce inequality
• Deliver environmental improvement and climate resilience
• Prepare for technological and behavioural change

"Richmond relies on ageing transport network and has endured low levels of regional and national funding compared to other parts of the capital," added Councillor Ehmann. 

"Our residents all too often battle with train, bus and road delays caused by severely strained infrastructure, built generations ago. And parts of the borough suffer poor connectivity and fewer realistic travel options."

The Council's strategy comes at a time when London’s transport network is facing growing pressure from population growth, changing travel patterns and the need to meet climate targets. Across outer London, ageing infrastructure and long-standing underinvestment continue to constrain connectivity, said Councillor Ehmann. 

"Our transport network requires innovation and new thinking to meet the demands of a modern London borough and the ambitions of its residents. 

"Improvements are needed across Richmond upon Thames, but our investment will focus on those areas where the connectivity gaps are the greatest."

Included in the Council’s comprehensive strategy are plans to ensure all residents live within 400 metres of a bus stop or is supported with improved access to bus stops where this is not possible.

Step-free access is promoted for all rail stations, beginning with Kew Gardens, North Sheen and Hampton Wick, with the Council also pushing for more reliable and frequent train services. And the borough’s main bottlenecks, including where roads pass over and under railways and where main roads meet, will be prioritised for improvement.

Meanwhile, electric vehicle charging infrastructure will expand, and a borough-wide high-quality walking network and joined-up protected cycling network will be created to link town centres, schools, parks and stations.

Councillor Ehmann said: "This strategy sets out our vision to transform transport across the borough and make a real difference to residents' lives.

"No matter where they live, our residents will be able to access jobs, schools, services and green spaces more easily. They will also enjoy more reliable and frequent public transport services. 

"Richmond is no longer merely maintaining inherited transport infrastructure – it is actively reshaping it."

Read the Transport Strategy 2040.