Comment

Representation ID: 45892

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Transport for West Midlands

Whilst this policy aims to enhance accessibility to new development by a choice of transport options, we feel this needs to be expanded upon, especially because the distribution of employment opportunities often place the greatest demands on transport. The policy should more strongly address improving access to employment, especially by sustainable options. It should also set out how investment in transport across the Black Country can support the economic recovery from COVID-19, both in terms of direct employment to deliver on our infrastructure and services and through improved accessibility to employment opportunities.

Fully understanding exactly how investment in infrastructure then links to job creation and leveraging in jobs for local people across the Black Country is vitally important across the wider WMCA, and this is something Officers can assist with through making links with relevant colleges and providers.

It would further be beneficial for this section to set out how employment land proposals have taken into account the impacts of COVID-19 – especially concerning requirements for office space. Under policy DEL3: Promotion of Fibre to the premises and 5G networks.