The UK government has announced plans to stop councils implementing so-called 15-minute cities. The goal is to “keep traffic moving, make parking simpler, and clamp down on overrunning road works”, writes a statement. According to the government, the plans address drivers' "everyday concerns". The measures include reviewing 20mph speed limits in England, as well as amending guidance on low-traffic neighbourhoods. 15-minute cities are cities in which cars are no longer necessary because all daily necessary trips can be made within 15 minutes on foot.
However, the government will support councils to introduce more lane rental schemes, which require utility companies to pay to dig up the busiest roads at peak times. According to Transport Secretary Mark Harper, there will also be investment in public transport. He said in the statement: “We’re introducing a plan to ensure drivers can enjoy smoother journeys. Our plan will sit alongside our continued investment in public transport and active travel as part of a package of measures designed to help people travel in the best way that works for them.”
The measures follow Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s new approach to net zero, which committed to ending the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035, while "supporting people who rely on their cars in their daily lives". ce/em
