UK road plans slammed as major setback for net zero goals

Plans by the UK’s Department for Transport (DfT) to expand the nation’s roadworks are evidence of failure to match net zero ambitions, according to pressure group Transport Action Network.

Urging legal action to hamper DfT policy, a letter from the Transport Action Network stated: “Despite claiming to lead on the climate and nature emergencies, the Government is seeking to continue the 'largest ever' road-building programme. This will increase carbon, harm nature and sever local communities.”

Major road construction projects currently underway as part of the DfT’s Road Investment Strategy include M1 Junctions 13 – 19 between Milton Keynes and Rugby, and M4 Junctions 3-12 from West London past Reading.

Stressing the need for the DfT to prioritise rail travel, the Transport Action Network letter referenced a recent UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report which warned that it is 'now or never' as it is extremely likely the most ambitious climate targets will be missed.