Blog

Our blog offers commentary, analysis and insights on the latest urban transport debates from our team of experts, as well as our Director’s regular column for Passenger Transport magazine.

West Midlands bus

Talkin’ ‘bout a green bus revolution

Buses have a crucial role to play in the UK’s path to net zero – both to achieve modal shift and decarbonise our transport system. Over the last few years buses have become central in the public discussion over the future of transport – but are we in the midst of a green bus revolution, asks Monta Drozdova.

How to solve a problem like bus use?

As the old adage goes, ‘you wait ages for a bus to turn up, and then two come along at once’. The same seems to be true for research into bus users, writes Tom Ellerton, following the publication of more information on how to bring passengers back to the bus.
DLR

Let there be light – Reflections from the UK Light Rail Conference

This week I visited Gateshead for the UK Light Rail Conference where I learned about the passion our members have for delivering world-class light rail systems that sit in an integrated transport network, and which support the wider goals of their local places, writes Jason Prince.
Jason Prince

UTG, my next stop

"Today is my first day as Director of the Urban Transport Group, a role that I am looking forward to with a mixture of both excitement and trepidation." In his first blog post, Jason Prince writes about why he's truly excited about the possibilities that lie ahead for UTG and for local and urban transport.
Andy Burnham by a bus

No transport, no growth – Mayor Andy Burnham in conversation with Urban Transport Group

Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, is one of the most recognisable voices in today’s politics, known for his passionate advocacy for Manchester, the North and for better transport. He was certainly in his element during a conversation with Laura Laker, the freelance journalist who put the questions to the Mayor earlier this week as part of our Urban Transport Next conversations series.  

Model railway

Is Great British Railways still on track?

The delivery of the biggest rail reform since the 1990s seems to be stalling in its tracks since the Great British Railways plans were announced in 2021. Yet Monta Drozdova looks at some reforms (outside of primary legislation) which are gathering pace.
London ULEZ sign

Working towards making every day a clean air day

Whilst air quality has improved across the country over the last few decades, air pollution remains amongst the most pressing and biggest challenges facing our members. Monta Drozdova looks at what action is being taken at the city region level.
Young girl on a bus

“If you want to get outside, you’re gonna have to use a bus”- Stories on how the bus is a lifeline for many young adults

Dr Sarah Collings of the University of the West of England blogs on how buses are vital for young adults to access education and employment, and for building life-skills, following interviews with 17 and 18-year-olds.