Shortlist for £200m transport infrastructure fund for new housing developments drawn up

Schemes shortlisted for a share of a £200m transport infrastructure fund for new housing developments have been announced today by Housing Minister Caroline Flint and Transport Minister Rosie Winterton.

The 36 shortlisted schemes are all in locations that are committed to building more homes and are keen to deliver improvements to their transport infrastructure to support this growth, as part of the government's specially designated 'growth areas' programme.

Over 160 expressions of interest were received with 36 making it to today's shortlist showing the important role transport infrastructure can play in developing new communities. Funding is supporting schemes in Growth Areas and Growth Points across the country.

Reflecting the Government's commitment to promoting travel choice, as part of the action against climate change, fifteen of the schemes shortlisted today by Communities and Local Government and the Department for Transport propose sustainable transport solutions such as bus routes, rail improvement or park and ride facilities, with some schemes covering a combination of travel modes.

Caroline Flint said: 'One of the main priorities this government faces is building the new homes that families and first time buyers, in particular, so badly need. These places are already stepping up to the mark to deliver more housing, so now we are looking to support that development by getting the right infrastructure in place.

'The schemes shortlisted today for the next stage in bidding for £200m of funding have shown that they can help unlock potential in proposed new developments, as well as provide the transport infrastructure to support growing communities and improve access to town centres and jobs.'

Rosie Winterton said: 'This funding plays a critical role in supporting Local Authorities to ensure housing developments are properly planned, with high quality infrastructure at the centre. I was delighted by the range of applications we received and am very pleased to announce this list of schemes proceeding to the next stage.

'Almost half of the investment will go to schemes that reduce the reliance on cars and encourage more sustainable travel. This presents real support to new communities with genuine ambitions for changing the way they travel.'Ministers will announce which schemes have been awarded funding in early 2009.

Sustainable public and combined transport schemes include:

• Northampton to Wellingborough Bus Rapid Transit
• South East Hampshire - Harbour Link, Bus Rapid Transit scheme
• Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge, Swindon
• Regiment Way Park and Ride, Colchester
• West of Worcester Rapid Transit Corridor
• Luton Parkway Station, new Northern entrance