The MACS Strategy
Strategic Plan 2026 - 2030
This year marked a significant milestone for MACS with the development and publication of our new Strategic Plan spanning 2026-2030, representing a key achievement for the reporting period and setting a clear direction for our work over the coming years.
The new Strategic Plan has been developed at a time of change for MACS, with refreshed leadership, new Committee members, and an evolving political and public transport landscape. It reflects both continuity and progress – building on MACS’ previous objectives while refining its focus to ensure it remains relevant, responsive, and impactful.
MACS’ previous strategic framework was structured around five high-level objectives and seven key priorities, which together focused on embedding accessibility across government, strengthening cross-portfolio working, promoting early engagement in policy and procurement, and supporting an inclusive and sustainable transport system. These priorities also included specific areas of focus such as Transport to Health and Motability, alongside broader themes including active travel and equality.
Our newly developed Strategic Plan retains the core intent of these objectives but introduces a clearer emphasis on delivery, accountability, and measurable progress. The updated objectives strengthen MACS’ role in not only advocating for accessibility but also supporting and influencing meaningful change across government and public bodies. There is a renewed focus on ensuring that accessibility is actively progressed, that duties are upheld, and that engagement with MACS is embedded more consistently in policy development.
The revised set of priorities reflects a more streamlined and integrated approach. While key themes such as Accessible Transport Systems, the National Transport Strategy, Active Travel, Island Connectivity, and Representation, Equality and Engagement remain central, there has been a consolidation of related areas. Notably, Transport to Health and Motability are now embedded within the broader priority of Active Travel and Infrastructure, recognising the interconnected nature of transport challenges and opportunities. This shift supports a more holistic approach to addressing accessibility across the full journey, including the critical “first and last mile”.
The development of this updated strategy positions us to respond effectively to current and future challenges, while continuing to influence policy, legislation and practice. It provides a strong, coherent framework for the Committee’s work and reinforces its commitment to driving progress towards a more accessible, inclusive and equitable transport system across Scotland.
High Level Objectives
Objective One
To build on the Scottish Government’s policy to promote a fair, accessible and inclusive Scotland.
Objective Two
To work across Cabinet and Ministerial portfolios to ensure the need for an accessible transport system is recognised, supported, and meaningfully progressed.
Objective Three
To ensure that the Scottish Government has public bodies and local authorities uphold their duties regarding the provision of accessible public transport and infrastructure and supports progress in these areas.
Objective Four
To advocate for engagement with MACS when developing or revising policy and ensure accessibility is given priority consideration when developing or revising policy, plans or contracts by officials in the Scottish Government and other areas of influence.
Objective Five
To support Transport Scotland to deliver on accessibility and equality outcomes within the National Transport Strategy, ensuring delivery plans lead to meaningful change for disabled persons, and working in close collaboration with Transport Scotland on the Accessible Travel Framework.
Key Priorities
- Accessible Transport Systems
- National Transport Strategy
- Active Travel & Infrastructure (including Transport to Health & Motability)
- Island Connectivity Plan
- Representation, Equality & Engagement