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Transport law shake-up to make journeys smarter and greener

The Government launched a call for evidence on UK transport laws earlier this week in a move to use new transport technology to make journeys easier, smarter and greener.

The £90m funding boost will lead to trials of new transport innovation in three new ‘future transport zones’

Launched before the lockdowns began on UK transport, the consultation to make journeys easier, smarter and greener through new technology forms part of the Future of Transport regulatory review and builds on announcements made in March 2019 that the Government plans to invest £90m in towns and cities to test transport innovation, including legalising the use of electric ‘e-scooters’.

The review will look at revolutionising everyday travel decisions and aiding the switch to walking, cycling, or public transport. It will also consult on the use of e-scooters and the impact they may have on UK transport. Requirements for both e-scooters and those using them are being explored to make sure they are safe for use on roads. This includes a minimum age and vehicle standards as well as insurance requirements

In addition, the £90m funding boost will lead to trials of new transport innovation in three new ‘future transport zones’, covering Portsmouth and Southampton, the West of England Combined Authority, and Derby and Nottingham – alongside the existing West Midlands future of transport zone.

Speaking at the start of the week, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “This review will ensure we understand the potential impacts of a wide range of new transport modes such as e-scooters, helping to properly inform any decisions on legalisation. Funding these new zones across the country will also help us safely test innovative ways to get around, creating a greener future transport system for us all.”

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Natalie Middleton

Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day.