Bold new transport strategy to improve accessibility and connectivity across the borough

A new, first of its kind for the borough transport strategy has been approved by Richmond Council at its Transport and Air Quality Committee last week setting a long term direction for how people move around the borough over the next 14 years. 

The Transport Strategy 2040 has been developed after extensive public engagement. It places a strong focus on supporting growth and improving accessibility, connectivity, and quality, particularly in neighbourhoods that are currently less well served by public transport. 

Councillor Alexander Ehmann, Chair of the Transport and Air Quality Committee, said: “This strategy marks a significant step change in how we plan for transport in Richmond upon Thames. For too long, parts of the borough – including Ham, Hampton and Heathfield – have experienced poorer connectivity and fewer realistic travel choices.” 

By taking a boroughwide and forward looking approach, the strategy aims to strengthen connections between neighbourhoods, town centres and key services, while making it easier for residents to choose walking, cycling and public transport for everyday journeys. The added opportunities for sustainable travel will also help to lower congestion volumes and improve air quality for all residents. 

Key deliverables include:

• An annual Transport Strategy Action Plan
• A Public Transport Plan
• A new Walking and Cycling Strategy
• An Accessibility and Inclusion Plan
• Area Transport Improvement Plans for areas with lower levels of transport accessibility and choice which will be drawn up following engagement with residents 

The Transport Strategy 2040 provides a long term framework supporting the Richmond Growth Plan, while recognising that improvements will be delivered in stages and in partnership with organisations such as Transport for London, Network Rail and neighbouring boroughs. 

Councillor Ehmann added: “By putting accessibility and fairness at the heart of our approach, we are setting out a clear ambition to close those gaps. This is about ensuring that residents, wherever they live, can access jobs, schools, services and green spaces more easily, while preparing our transport network for the future.” 

The Council will continue to engage with residents, community groups and partners as the strategy moves from approval to delivery.