Will Quince reflects on the Autumn Budget
“There are several areas of today’s Budget that will have an impact on transport and for the East’s travellers. Our partnership strongly welcomes the confirmation of the rail fares freeze, as ticket costs is one of the biggest barriers to people choosing rail for their journeys.
“Further commitment has also been made to the Lower Thames Crossing, to allow the scheme to continue while longer-term financing decisions are finalised.
“We understand the rationale for moving to a pay-per-mile charge for EVs to ensure continuity of funds for essential road maintanence, however we look forward to more detail on how this will be implemented. The extension of the EV grant is also welcome to a region that is both car dependent and has higher than average carbon emissions.
“Fuel costs are important, particularly to our rural communities and logistics sectors and so while the retention of the 5p fuel duty cut until September 2026 and duty frozen in 2026-27 is helpful, future changes to this will have an impact on communities with few alternative transport options. The ‘Fuel Finder’ tool could also have lower benefits in rural locations.
“Reliable transport connections in the East enable growth and productivity, both regionally and nationally. The region is essential for achieving government ambitions on energy, new homes, food security and international trade. Maintaining a stable pipeline of investment in road, rail and public transport, and ensuring the East has the right capacity will allow the region to play its part in accelerating growth.”