Welcome to the Local Transport Plan (LTP) for Bedfordshire for 2006/07 to 2010/11. This second LTP for Bedfordshire was submitted to the Department for Transport and Government Office for the East of England on 31^st March 2006.

Transport and land use planning will be challenging in Bedfordshire over the coming years as a result of the Sustainable Communities Plan, which identifies Bedfordshire as part of the Milton Keynes South Midlands Growth Area. Development pressure will also be apparent in all the major conurbations around Bedfordshire adding to the need to improve our transport networks. We also need to ensure that we do not neglect our existing communities and our environment which is seen by many to be under threat.

Therefore, we will respond to the forthcoming challenges with a three-pronged approach. First we will prepare Bedfordshire for the challenges of growth by helping to deliver the substantial infrastructure investment programme already committed. Secondly, we will consolidate our position by managing our networks better and improving local transport facilities. Thirdly, we will pursue a policy of 'infrastructure before growth' to avoid making transport conditions worse, and we will seek further investment in transport projects.

Our transport policies consider the needs of all people who travel in and through Bedfordshire, from those passing through on the Motorways and Trunk Roads, to those who walk or cycle to local facilities. The success of the plan depends on the adoption of a balanced approach and public engagement.

We are at the beginning of a time of change, we look forward to the challenges ahead and I commend this plan to you.

Tom Wootton
Executive Member for Highways and Waste
Bedfordshire County Council
County Hall
Bedford MK42 9AP