2.3 Achieving our Objectives

In the same way as considering alternative scenarios, there are also a variety of options available to us for achieving our objectives. The options are the, “interventions” or “things we will do” to achieve our objectives, e.g. in order to make it easier to travel by public transport, we might consider changing the frequency of a bus service, or constructing more bus stops or making it easier to buy tickets. It is quite likely that no single measure can achieve an objective and that a balanced package of measures is required. The following options have been formulated through an analysis of the current situation and an understanding of the challenges and opportunities present in our area and current transport policy. [Please see Appendix 1 for details of the development and consultation process] The developed options have been grouped into themes similar to those used in Chapter 1.

 2.3.1 Infrastructure

• Implement a programmed approach to road improvements.
• Implement a programmed approach to address the roads maintenance backlog.
• Improve traffic management throughout the network.
• Ensure all new development meets current transport policy.
• Manage the effects of climate change on the transport network.

2.3.2 Passenger transport

• Improve passenger transport services.
• Improve service integration.
• Review passenger transport fares.
• Promote demand responsive services.
• Encourage Community Transport provision.
• Develop air services.
• Develop an Accessibility Planning model.
• Improve passenger transport information.
• Improve passenger transport ticketing.
• Improve passenger transport infrastructure.
• Improve parking at transport interchanges.

2.3.3 Freight Transport

• Develop a freight strategy.
• Increase the volume of freight shipped by sustainable modes.
• Continue to develop a strategic timber transport network.
• Identify opportunities for developing freight interchanges.
• Promote improvements to the national strategic transport network within and outwith the area.

B8024 - part of the strategic timber transport network

2.3.4 Sea Transport

• Improve marine infrastructure / vessels.
• Review transport options for our islands.
• Improve the ferry network.
• Improve parking at ferry terminals.
• Review ferry fares.
• Improve marine interchange facilities.

New linkspan at Port Askaig, Islay being installed

2.3.5 Active Travel

• Develop a Cycling and Walking strategy.
• Develop and implement Travel Plans.
• Improve infrastructure for active travel.
• Promote benefits of active travel.

A814 on-road cycle route, Helensburgh

2.3.6 Safety

• Revise Road Safety Plan.
• Improve road user behaviour.
• Review speed limits.
• Improve road safety in sensitive locations.

2.3.7 Related interventions

These interventions could assist in achieving our objectives, but are not directly related to transport provision.

• Encourage development of island co-operatives for cost effective importing / exporting of goods.
• Promote development of processing capacity in Argyll and Bute for primary industries to reduce onward transport requirements and add value to the product.
• Review opportunities for trial use of bio fuels and green energy sources.
• Encourage delivery of services locally to reduce the need to travel, e.g. more local health care provision in community hospitals.

The option themes identified in section 2.3 will, when implemented, enable the Council and its partners to deliver our objectives. Figure 13 demonstrates the effectiveness of our options in achieving these objectives.