Public transport investment boost for Ashford

Ashford’s future public transport plans have received a boost with news that the Government has agreed to invest in transport priority schemes recommended by the South East England Regional Transport Board.

One of the transport schemes recommended for funding is Smartlink, a new dedicated bus service proposed to serve the rapidly-increasing number of residential and employment sites in and around the Government-designated growth town of Ashford in Kent.

Andy Phillips, Sustainable Transport Manager for Ashford’s Future, the agency tasked with delivering economic development for Kent’s ancient market town, said: “This is very good news that the Government is supporting future transport schemes for Ashford. The Smartlink scheme is still subject to approval from Kent County Council and the Department for Transport, but this is a positive step towards delivering more sustainable transport to Ashford.”

The total transport improvements for the South East are worth £530 million and are planned for between 2011 and 2016. In total 16 transport projects will help deliver the South East Plan and the Regional Economic Strategy. The Government has welcomed the region's strategic approach to planning for key transport needs.

Cllr Nick Skellett, Chairman of the Transport Board and a member of the South East England Regional Assembly, said: "This is a success for the Board and I am delighted that the region has secured funding for vital transport projects. The Assembly has worked with councils and partners across the region on setting transport priorities and it has paid off. Partnership working is the way forward to deliver the South East Plan and key infrastructure."

For more information about Ashford, the fastest growing town between London and Continental Europe, visit ashfordbestplaced.co.uk.