This is a summary of the West Dorset Western Area Transport Action Group’s (WATAG) response to the second consultation on the Dorset Council/BCP Council Local Transport Plan 4 (LTP4), emphasising the need for sustainable transport solutions.
You may read the entire response document here.
LTP4 Ambitions and Integration
WATAG supports LTP4’s goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from transport by 2050 and promoting inclusive, sustainable communities. Concerns arise regarding LTP4’s insufficient integration with the draft Local Plan, particularly in defining and supporting ‘sustainable’ economic growth. Key performance indicators for greenhouse gas emissions need to be more stringent, encompassing all greenhouse gases and ensuring absolute reductions rather than per capita metrics.
Implementation Plan Concerns
The first Implementation Plan (2026-31) lacks specific commitments, with future plans showing even less clarity. Financial constraints faced by Dorset Council should encourage greater collaboration with local authorities and third-sector organisations, which is currently lacking.
WATAG expresses a desire to participate in developing the Bridport Region Integrated Links network and similar initiatives for other Tier 2 settlements like Lyme Regis and Beaminster.
Transport Strategy and Local Needs
WATAG generally agrees with LTP4’s principles but highlights ambiguities that could undermine its effectiveness, particularly in defining sustainable economic development. The draft Local Plan aims to improve connectivity and employment opportunities in Western Dorset, but LTP4’s proposals fall short of meeting these goals. The definition of ‘sustainable transport’ in LTP4 is supported, but the lack of ambitious proposals for Western Dorset is disappointing, with only seven projects listed for the area compared to more for other regions.
Bridport Region Integrated Links (BRIL)
BRIL aims to create a network of high-quality public transport and active travel corridors, with inter-urban buses providing direct services to key destinations. Proposed measures include prioritising buses in town centres and enhancing service frequencies to make public transport more competitive with car travel. A mobility hub in Bridport is envisioned to connect various transport modes and support an expanded active-travel network, with potential for on-demand rural services.
Conclusions and Recommendations
WATAG welcomes LTP4’s ambitions but stresses the need for better integration with the draft Local Plan and clearer definitions of sustainable economic growth. We call for tighter greenhouse gas emissions indicators and more specific commitments in the Implementation Plan for Western Dorset.
WATAG is eager to collaborate on developing transport solutions that address local needs and enhance connectivity in the region.