The Scottish Government has unveiled its Draft Just Transition Plan for Transport, setting out how Scotland will move towards a net zero transport system by 2045. The plan, which builds on the National Transport Strategy, aims to make the shift in a way that is fair, sustainable and beneficial to all.
But while ministers celebrate progress, many passengers remain frustrated and serious questions are being asked about the government’s commitment to delivering real change.
Promises vs Reality
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop says tackling the climate emergency is a key priority, pointing to achievements such as:
- 800 zero-emission buses introduced
- 450 miles of new or improved walking and cycling paths
- Nearly 200 million free bus journeys for under-22s
- 76% of rail journeys now electrified
- 6,000+ public EV chargers, hitting the target two years early
On paper, it sounds impressive. But for many people relying on public transport, the reality is very different.
A System That Works for People – Not Just Profits?
Public transport users across Scotland aren’t just asking for greener travel, they’re demanding better services.
That means:
- More regular and reliable bus services
- Fewer delays and cancellations
- A system that puts people before private profit
Bus services, in particular, remain a major source of frustration. While Scotland has the legal powers to introduce a franchising system, allowing councils to take control of services and run them for public benefit, the government has delayed enacting these powers for more than five years. Even worse, when they did introduce them, they were the most complex and difficult-to-use in the UK.
If the Scottish Government is serious about climate action, why has bus reform been kicked down the road for so long ?
Have Your Say
A public consultation on the Just Transition Plan for Transport is open until 19 May, giving people a chance to share their count. But for those who want real action, not more government delays, a petition has been launched to demand proper bus reform.
📢 Sign the petition to The Scottish Parliament petitions.parliament.scot/petitions/PE2116
Scotland’s transport system is at a crossroads. The government has laid out its vision, but will it listen to what people really want ? share your comments below…
(Source- https://www.transport.gov.scot/news/a-just-transition-for-scotland-s-transport-sector/)
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