Self-driving shuttles feature in transport plan

Trams and self-driving shuttle buses are among the proposals aimed at helping a growing town meet its transport needs.

They are part of a draft transport plan for Northampton for the next 10 years, which has been published by West Northamptonshire Council.

The town had a population of 250,000, but would be "rapidly expanding" and in need of alternatives to private cars by 2036, said the report.

Currently, 13% of journeys to work in Northampton are by foot or bike, 8% by bus and 1% by rail.

The long-term aim of the Northampton Area Transport Strategy 2026 to 2036 was to reduce dependence on car travel, the Reform UK-led council said.

It hoped its proposals would help make walking and cycling "the first choice for short trips", while travel by public transport would become more accessible.

The report listed 155 potential transport improvements after gathering evidence and receiving feedback from people.

Public transport options included a light railway system or trams, which operated in the town in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Another suggestion was the introduction of autonomous passenger shuttles, which could link the town's railway, bus and coach stations with either Northampton General Hospital or the university.

Other ideas in the report included new and improved walking and cycling routes, bus priority measures on key roads and smarter parking systems.

Richard Butler, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "Anyone who travels around Northampton knows there are times when the network comes under pressure.

"As the town continues to grow, we need to think carefully about how people get to work, school, the shops and other key destinations."

He added no decisions had yet been made and asked residents to help shape the plans.

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