boomer

If you live in, or drive through, the West Midlands, you may wish to view (and hopefully comment on) the obviously anti-car stance that is being taken.

See http://westmidlandsltp.gov.uk/ and click on ">>LTP Consultation..." followed by ">>Open questionnaire..." for an example of a very biased piece of manipulation.

Some example questions (with a response from Strongly Agree to Strongly Disagree)...

1. We should spend more on building roads

Why?
Building more road capacity will reduce congestion in the short term, but new roads often fill up.

So are we agreeing with a reduction in congestion, or roads filling up (i.e. more congestion)?

3. We should introduce more Park & Ride facilities

Why?
Fewer people travelling by car into the centre reduces congestion, cuts pollution and is safer for people.

er, a bus with one person on board is NOT going to reduce pollution (indeed even a full bus emits more particulates than the equivalent multiple cars - see http://www.abd.org.uk/pr/20a.htm), and buses are actually more dangerous than cars (see http://www.abd.org.uk/pr/432.htm).

6. We should spend more promoting Green Travel Choices

Why?
Using alternatives to the car can cut congestion and pollution and be better for people’s health by encouraging walking and cycling.

So, the immediate assumption is that a car is not, and cannot, be "green"! Sure, lets promote "green travel", but please include the car as an option!

7. We should work towards better rail services

Why?
Reliability and increased capacity on our trains will improve accessibility, reduce car use and improve air quality. Rail also remains the safest form of transport.

So, trains are safe...

8. We should extend the Midland Metro tram network

Why?
Trams are a fast reliable form of transport. A bigger tram network means more people can leave the car, reducing congestion and cutting pollution. Trams are also very safe.

...and trams are safe...

9. We should extend the Bus Showcase network

Why?
Buses are the most accessible form of transport and are safe. Better buses and more reliable journeys will benefit everyone, providing a viable alternative to the car. Kneeling buses help people with mobility difficulties.

...and buses are safe...

...[b]so WHY is the CAR the ONLY transport more that they don't specifically call "safe"? Or are they planting assumptions in our heads

13. We should investigate the pros and cons of all the options for tackling congestion

Why?
There are a number of options for tackling congestion, which include introducing flexible working hours to reduce peak flows of traffic, and charging those who drive on congested roads at the busiest times. It makes sense to look at the benefits and drawbacks of all the options.

So, if you "agree", then you will automatically be happy with congestion charging will you? Strange that there is no mention of removing bus lanes or ceasing to build bus stops than project into the road and stop all traffic or stop phasing traffic lights on favour of buses that only appear avery half hour, but the lights switch every minute!.

You will have to register to read the nitty-gritty (more big brother), but at least you will understand where the lies, er, government facts, come from!!!

mb