Transport (Scotland) Bill passes Stage 1 approval
Written by: Fuel Card Services, Last updated:11th August 2020
Stage 1 approval for the new Transport (Scotland) Bill took place in the Scottish parliament at Holyrood earlier this month.
The new legislation paves the way for the introduction of cleaner, more sustainable and efficient transport infrastructure across the country in the years to come.
Focused on green development
Key to the legislation is a commitment to implement new schemes for the reduction of air pollution and the empowerment of local authorities to create consistent standards for transport.
The creation of a range of new low-emission zones (LEZs) in city centres up and down the country will help to reduce environmental pollution from transport in the coming years, the Scottish government claims.
Michael Matheson, cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity, commented: “We have always been clear that LEZs have the potential to interact with a host of other transport issues, be that congestion, active travel, the improved feel of community space or the uptake of ultra-low-emission vehicles.”
Other measures set to be introduced in the Bill include further provision for smart ticketing, regional transport partnerships and the governance/regeneration of Scottish canals.
In addition, it examines provision for greater flexibility in bus services and the imposing of stricter controls on parking.
Ellie Baker, brand manager at FCS Scotland, adds: “Ensuring a greener tomorrow is at the heart of the new legislation. Seeing it pass Stage 1 approval is therefore an extremely positive development for Scottish transport.”
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