WIREDGOV

A fresh approach to the development, appraisal and evaluation of transport interventions in Wales which better supports the wellbeing of people and the planet has been launched by the Welsh Government.

The Welsh Transport Appraisal Guidance (WelTAG) 2017 will build on the principles set out in WelTAG 2008 by enabling the public sector to deliver transport solutions which are low- or zero-carbon, mitigate air pollution problems, catalyse the green economy and make people, goods and services mobile in ways that do not cost the earth.

As set out in the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015, a sustainable development principle is a fundamental part of how public bodies and public services boards must now operate. 

All transport interventions in Wales must now consider the needs of future generations as well as the present, adhering to the following principles:

• look to the long term so that we do not compromise the ability of future generations to meet their own needs; 
• understand the root causes of issues to prevent them from occurring or getting worse;
• take an integrated approach so that public bodies look at all the well-being goals in deciding on their well-being objectives; 
• involve a diversity of the population in the decisions that affect them; and
• working with others in a collaborative way to find shared sustainable solutions.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport, Ken Skates, said:

“Reinforced by the notion of sustainable development, future transport planning must not only overcome its traditional economic orientation, but also adopt a broad holistic, perspective. The economic imperative that underlines the need for additional infrastructure development must be considered in relation to environmental degradation, climatic impacts and societal trends.

“I have been delighted to work closely with the Future Generations Commissioner for Wales to ensure that WelTAG 2017 embeds the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 so transport schemes can be developed using the sustainable development principle to maximise their contribution to the well-being of future generations.”

Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales said:

“I welcome the Government's decision to revise their WelTAG guidance to reflect the Well-being of Future Generations Act. It is a significant step in the right direction. 

“The new tool must now be used to support the implementation of the Well-being of Future Generations Act which is shifting the conversation around sustainable transport planning in Wales and moving the focus to a more innovative and long-term approach"

“A future-fit transport system must be low carbon, energy efficient, pollute less and be resilient to climate change. It must also be centered around people, including providing active travel opportunities and offering sustainable choices for how they live and travel.

“The new WelTAG guidance, working with my Future Generations Framework, should enable the public sector in Wales to unlock the multiple benefits the Act offers and is an important step towards achieving all aspects of well-being for current and future generations.