News Release : 29 November 2005

SOUTH HAMPSHIRE TRAM SERVICE IS OFF THE RAILS

Growth in Hampshire is being jeopardised by the Government's failure to invest in delivering South Hampshire's tram service, says the South East England Regional Assembly.

Government's announcement (29 November) raises question marks over its commitment to support future growth with timely investment in new infrastructure. Pressure on South Hampshire's transport system is increasing and without substantial investment in new transport it will be impossible to realise the regeneration and development potential of the area. The sub-region's road network is heavily congested and a step change in quality public transport could have been delivered with South Hampshire's new tram service. It could have created an opportunity to deliver sustainable growth, which is now severely compromised.

Cllr Keith Mitchell, Chairman of the Assembly said: “Government's failure to support South Hampshire's new tram service is alarming. Local authorities in the sub-region are working with partners to respond positively to Government's growth agenda. Today's decision is a slap in the face for those working hard on planning for the region's future. This area has great economic potential, which is now seriously jeopardised. Once again it raises serious questions about Government's commitment to support the region's growth through investment in infrastructure. It is a missed opportunity. With pressure on regional budgets we are urgently calling on Government to provide additional funds to support delivery of vital infrastructure projects.”

Contact

Lesley van Dijk, PR Executive - 01483 555223

Heather Bolton, Head of Communications - 01483 555220

Notes to editors:

1. The South East England Regional Assembly is the "voluntary regional chamber" for the South East. It was established in January 1999 to give a representative voice to the South East region which covers Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East and West Sussex, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Kent, Oxfordshire, and Surrey.
   
   
2. The Regional Assembly is made up of 112 members including elected councillors nominated by the region's local authorities and 37 representatives from other sectors of the community (including business, trades unions, education, housing, health, sports, culture, tourism, faith groups, environmental, community and voluntary organisations) as well as the New Forest National Park Authority..
   
   
3. The Assembly has three areas of core business:
1. It is the representative voice of the South East, engaging and representing its member organisations and, through them, the wider public.
   
   
2. The Assembly has a specific role under the Regional Development Agencies' Act 1998 to ensure the accountability of the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) to the region.
   
   
3. The Assembly has been the Regional Planning Body for the South East since April 2001. It has responsibility for proposing strategic planning and transport policies to Government.

Last updated: 21 August 2007

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