Transportation experts and political figures gathered at a summit to discuss the future of South Yorkshire’s ‘broken’ transport system.
On 1 March, the mayor outlined a series of ambitions for the region. These included:
- A complete devolution of finance for South Yorkshire, based on need.
- Extensions to the tram system using UK-leading technology.
- An electrified train line connecting Leeds and other cities with Sheffield, Rotherham, and Barnsley Dearne Valley.
The summit aimed to be a cooperative activity to raise the county’s aspirations and create a vision for a more ambitious, sustainable future transportation system.
Mayor Oliver Coppard said: “If the Government aren’t going to do it, we need to take matters into our own hands and figure out what a ‘London-style transport network’ that works for South Yorkshire looks like.”
Despite his optimism, the plans have provoked a number of demonstrations, headed by individuals who disagree with sustainability plans. Among these is the Clean Air Zone, which has been a point of contention since it was introduced on 27 February.
The mayor’s vision is a transport system that can ‘create and sustain our communities rather than being at the mercy of officials in London or shareholders in Dubai’.
He continued: “A baby being born today in Doncaster should grow up breathing clean air. By 2030, when she turns seven, we want her to be able to walk or cycle safely to school with her friends; jump on a cheap, reliable bus to see her grandparents or play football at the weekends.”
The summit demonstrated a strong desire for South Yorkshire to have a transportation infrastructure that benefits its people and economy.