Rishi Sunak prioritizes millions of car owners with measures that will stir up environmentalists and limit the powers of local councils. These announcements are expected to be made at the Tory conference, highlighting the prime minister’s “plan for motorists.” As part of this plan, restrictions on 20mph speed limits will be imposed and drivers will be favored over bus passengers.
This move is highly controversial as it clashes with local authorities who rely on these restrictions to maintain traffic-free bus lanes.
Sunak’s plan forms part of a series of contentious policy ideas, including a relaxed approach to net zero targets and potential cutbacks to the HS2 rail line. However, details on the rail line plans were not provided during a recent media round where Sunak participated in 34 interviews with local BBC and ITV outlets.
The “plan for motorists” is expected to include limitations on English councils’ ability to enforce 20mph speed limits on main roads, as well as restrictions on the hours car traffic is prohibited from using bus lanes. There may also be curbs on local authorities’ ability to issue fines using automatic number plate recognition cameras, and limitations on these cameras in box junctions.
Sunak is likely to voice concerns about the concept of “15-minute cities,” claiming it restricts people’s freedom to travel. However, the Department for Transport has described these policies as speculation.
These proposals follow Sunak’s promise to crack down on “anti-motorist policies” after winning the Uxbridge and South Ruislip byelection, aided by concerns about London’s ultra-low emission zone. It is important to note that evidence shows 20mph speed limits significantly reduce road deaths and injuries.
The potential limits on councils’ powers to improve road conditions for bus users, cyclists, and pedestrians may cause further controversy, particularly in Manchester where buses have recently been brought under public control.
Transport charity Sustrans criticizes the “plan for motorists,” stating that it fails those who don’t drive or own a car. They argue that prioritizing cars in this way negatively impacts pedestrians, cyclists, and users of public transport, as well as drivers who will experience increased congestion.
Cycling UK’s CEO, Sarah Mitchell, echoes this sentiment, calling for a holistic plan that considers all modes of travel. Focusing solely on one mode of transport limits people’s freedom to choose healthier, cheaper, and more convenient options such as better public transport and safer cycling and walking infrastructure.
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