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Transport

Modal shift will only come with better planning

Paul Nowak from the Trades Union Congress is right about his comments (Opinions, NCE online, 9 May).

This country is totally woeful in comparison with most other developed nations when it comes to public transport, particularly in our urban areas. Wanting the public to shift from the private car can only ever work if there is a viable alternative to get around – and for the vast majority of UK towns and cities that alternative does not exist.

It is shameful for a country of our standing.

Many European cities of even quite modest size have tram systems and larger cities have in addition metros with modal transfer links. Getting around towns abroad is usually far simpler, more convenient and cheaper than in the UK. We must improve the situation now or forever be destined for life in the slow or even slower lane compared with our far more enlightened cousins abroad.

Paul Hayward, paulghayward@talktalk.net

The Editor, New Civil Engineer,
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