There is an increased emphasis on local decision making based on assessments of local needs for all forms of housing, and on long-term local housing strategies drawn up by authorities in partnership with communities. Local housing strategies should look at problems of poor condition and social exclusion in existing stock, and the scope for making better use of empty or under-utilised homes, as well as the need for new housing. They should set housing in wider contexts which support a range of economic, social and environmental objectives such as regeneration and energy efficiency measures. Transport Air pollution from traffic damages health. The cost of traffic congestion runs into billions of pounds each year.
Road transport is a major source of carbon dioxide emissions.
We need good public transport, well maintained roads and better conditions for cyclists and pedestrians. We need to consider not driving where walking is a straightforward alternative. And we need better access to services with less need to travel. Local authorities can play a part, not least through the implementation of local transport plans and powers for local authorities to levy charges on road users or on workplace parking, with revenues ploughed back into better local transport. Education Investing in education and skills, including lifelong learning, is essential.