Value of Transport Report

Transport Scotland shared an update following the publication of the ‘Connecting Scotland: Value of Transport’ report on 4 July. The report highlights the need to consider transport as a core element of economic policy. In a short presentation focussing on the role of Transport in the economy, officials noted that the economic footprint of transport is considerable – supporting nearly £10 billion in Gross Value Added and over 150,000 full-time equivalent jobs in Scotland. However, the role of transport is far broader, with discussion focussing on three ways in which transport helps contribute to increasing productivity and economic growth through supporting specific sectors or types of economic activity, through the development of the sector itself and supporting agglomeration effects. With such wide ranging impacts, Transport should be at the heart of economic decision making.

The paper was praised by Board members and provides a strong foundation to make the case for sustained funding, particularly to support equitable access to healthcare. Transport is a critical enabler for medical access, especially for vulnerable groups and remote communities, and its importance must be recognised. Members agreed to raise awareness of the report across their respective networks and forums.

Action DB11-04: Board members to raise the profile of the report by presenting it to their respective networks and forums.