Streets and People S2E27 PnP Russell King on why Conservatives like active and public transport
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Oct 3, 2025 Russell King, an experienced transport policy adviser and former local councillor, shares insights on how conservatives can advocate for active and public transport. He argues that these modes align with conservative values like independence and cost-effectiveness. The conversation covers transforming transport policy, appealing to libertarian ideals of freedom, and addressing the hidden subsidies of cars. King highlights the importance of walkable town centers and suggests innovative solutions like school streets to enhance community health and reduce congestion.
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Transport Needs Cross-Party Consensus
- Russell King argues active and public transport are not solely progressive causes and should not be politicised.
- He warns shifting policies with party changes harms long multi-year transport projects and consistency is vital.
Active Transport Aligns With Conservative Values
- Public and active transport deliver conservative goals like smaller government and lower long-term costs.
- Cars are heavily subsidised through roads, parking and health costs, so shifting modes can reduce government spending.
Frame Subsidies As Hidden Costs
- Do point out that roads and parking are effectively free and bias people toward cars, raising hidden costs.
- Ask conservative politicians to consider rebalancing subsidies and pricing parking properly to level modal choice.