The Scottish Association for Public Transport (SAPT) has researched transport trends in ten small European countries. In the best of these countries, public transport is organised as an integrated system, with bus, rail, and tram routes co-ordinated to offer seamless journeys. Such systems often require only one payment for multi-modal travel within a particular region, making travel much easier and less expensive than Scotland.
“Evidence in this paper shows public transport in small European countries has a bright future and is crucial in reaching net-zero. Success in Scotland will depend on changing the way bus and train services are organised to align with the European integration model.“
John McCormick, Chair of SAPT
The report outlines the systemic problem with Scottish transport, highlighting that of the ten European countries selected, Scotland falls into 8th place on public transport modal share percentage whilst having the second largest car share. Subsequently – and in light of the climate emergency – SAPT recommends that the Scottish government commits to this integrated approach and implements appropriate legislative changes, organisational structures, and transport governance changes that a required to deliver this vision of a world-class zero-carbon public transport system.
In particular, the report recognises four issues that need to be resolved to realise a fully integrated, green national transport network:
- Transport reform
- Timetable coordination
- Affordable fares
- Financial considerations
To find out more about how a European model can benefit Scotland, read SAPT’s report below:
