The local government White Paper, which proposes strong cities and strategic regions, says that the Government wishes to see proposals that would help promote further economic development.

To this end, it promises to devolve powers to local authorities across the country – in part to ensure that the bus services that communities need are delivered. Transport is a key factor in economic development and a growing issue that needs to be addressed by local government. The Innovation Forum's recent transport workshops have looked at some transport problems and solutions – fortunately, I believe that the Forum is knocking on an open door with its proposed pilot projects.