3 - Vision and Objectives
3.1 Introduction
This section defines the over-arching vision and objectives for
the B&NES area, which must guide the development of the
transportation vision. This has largely been based on a review of
existing policy documents and the feedback from a meeting with
B&NES Council members.
3.2 Existing Policies
Documentation of existing policy is widespread, and is included
in a large number of volumes pertinent not only to B&NES, but
also to neighbouring authorities, and to the sub-region, the former
county of Avon. A detailed review of these documents revealed that
two documents were of particular significance and relevance to this
work. These are:
- The B&NES (Draft) Local Plan; and,
- The B&NES Local Transport Plan.
B&NES (Draft) Local Plan
The Local Plan draws on several other documents to set its
policy context. Of particular importance is the over-arching
objective of the Joint Replacement Structure Plan, which is to:
"reconcile, balance and integrate the protection and enhancement
of the environment, the maintenance and enhancement of economic
prosperity, and meeting the social needs and aspirations of the
people of the area ".
Also detailed in the Local Plan are statements of the
following:
- Structure Plan Key Objectives;
- Community Vision for a Better Future;
- The Change 21 Vision for B&NES – The Economy;
- The B&NES Economic Development Strategy; and,
- B&NES Tourism Strategy.
Three strong themes emerge from these statements. They are the
importance of the economy, the environment and equity (social
inclusion). It is these principles of economy, social inclusion and
environment that have traditionally been seen as the hallmark of
good planning and transport planning within the professions and
beyond.
Local Transport Plan
Within the Local Transport Plan (LTP) B&NES Council's 20
year vision is stated as follows:
"We want Bath and North East Somerset to be recognised as a
place which has a vibrant economy, cultural diversity and a world
class environment; and for everyone who lives or works in, or
visits, the area to be able to share in these benefits." (Para.
2.1)
This study has seen no reason to amend this over-arching vision,
and it is adopted here. It has been adopted by the Study Team as
the basis for developing the vision for transport. The Council’s
vision gives rise to its three over-arching objectives, which are
stated in the LTP as:
- "to ensure a world class environment;
- promote the local economy; and
- ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the benefits
of the area." (Para.2.2)
As with the Local Plan these objectives reflect the principles
of economy, social inclusion and environment.
3.3 Consultation with Council Members
The key guiding objectives distilled from the documents set out
above were discussed at a stakeholder consultation meeting with
B&NES Council Members. During the session the following themes
emerged:
- The importance of the quality and distribution of employment in
Bath and the rest of B&NES, and the desire to develop the
tourist industry;
- The need for social inclusion in transport provision,
especially outside Bath; and
- Retaining and enhancing a world class environment.
Again these aspirations as articulated by Council Members adhere
closely to the principles of economy, social inclusion and
environment.
3. 4 Conclusion
The over-arching vision for B&NES as described in the LTP is
considered to be both comprehensive and robust; and has been
adopted by this study. Likewise the three principles of economy,
social inclusion and environment run through all statements of
objectives and aspirations relating to B&NES and are adopted as
appropriate objectives.
In considering this vision and the associated objectives, the
Study Team is satisfied that they are entirely consistent with the
current Government’s five objectives, which underpin national
transport policy. These are:
- To protect and enhance the built and natural
environment;
- To improve safety for all travellers;
- To contribute to an efficient economy, and to support
sustainable economic growth in appropriate locations;
- To promote accessibility to everyday facilities for all,
especially those without a car; and
- To promote the integration of all forms of transport and land
use planning, leading to a better, more efficient transport
system.
It is recognised that whilst an overarching vision and
objectives can be simply stated, its achievement is very
challenging both politically and fiscally.
