New towns risk repeating past mistakes unless transport comes first, experts warn
New towns will fail to deliver thriving, sustainable communities unless high-quality public transportation is included from the outset, according to a new report from the University of Hertfordshire.
New towns risk repeating past errors if proper transportation planning is not prioritized, warn experts from the University of Hertfordshire. The report, titled "Better places: new settlements with transport that works", emphasizes the need for high-quality public transport, walking and cycling networks to be planned and funded before homes are built.
This is crucial to prevent the same issues of congestion, carbon emissions, and pressure on local infrastructure experienced in low-density, car-dependent housing developments. The report draws on case studies from Freiburg, Germany, and developments in Cambridge and Harlow, highlighting the importance of integrated governance, land-value capture, and early transit subsidies in achieving higher densities with reduced car use.
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