Inadequate transport links hampering South's wellbeing

by EWAN LAMB

A strategy aimed at reducing "transport poverty" across the South of Scotland where roads are deteriorating, bus services are inadequate to meet rural needs and the electric vehicle (EV) charging network requires major investment has been recommended to civic leaders and national policy makers.

The transport issues and shortcomings which are said to be hampering economic growth and social wellbeing in the Scottish Borders and  Dumfries & Galloway were outlined in a major report considered by members of the Convention of the South of Scotland [COSS] this week.

According to the document: "This report seeks to make the case for establishing a collaborative, effective and productive partnership between Team South of Scotland, Transport Scotland and Scottish Government. This partnership would take joint, intentional, meaningful action that makes positive impact and progress in maximising the economic opportunities that contribute to addressing the distinct mobility challenges that rural economies face through policy, action and resource, making a reality the vision set out in the National Transport Strategy."

The region's demographics increase the challenges in providing adequate transport systems for local communities. Sparse population levels - less than half the national average - and a 20% decrease in spending on roads and transport since 2011 are among the factors compounding the situation.

As the report points out, spending cuts have led to 12% of the road network in Dumfries & Galloway being classed 'red' for condition and 35% amber, amongst the highest rates in Scotland.

The respective bus routes require 80% public subsidy in Borders and 55% in south-west Scotland. So far as so-called transport poverty is concerned, households in the south spend 18% of their income on transport compared to 9% in Edinburgh.

The report for COSS claims: "The proposed approach would address the specific challenges of the South of Scotland’s rural context, which is neither ‘island’ nor ‘urban’ and has historically found it more difficult to secure traction in national policy and practice."

The report invites the Convention to: reflect on the importance of transport to the success of the region, the challenges being faced, and the actions already being taken; and commit to engaging and supporting further work to develop solutions to the challenges, to identify tangible actions that can be taken to unlock the vision for transport in the region for discussion at its Spring 2025 meeting.

"Further investment in mobility infrastructure could enhance regional competitiveness, financial stability, and attract investment while reducing transport poverty. The South of Scotland’s low population density and rural expanse require a strong transport network to connect residents with essential services, employment, education, and social activities. 

"The region’s dispersed population makes public transport less efficient. Limited bus services and a lack of active travel infrastructure contribute to high transport poverty, reliance on private cars, and increased transport costs, particularly in rural areas. Making decisive progress in addressing these challenges provides the chance to address inequality and widen opportunities for people whatever their circumstances. A well-functioning transport system would support greater economic growth by facilitating business expansion and market access, which is crucial for building regional performance and resilience."

COSS is told that weak transport links and declining public transport services limit job access and investment opportunities. The region’s reliance on private cars and the limited viability of bus services exacerbates these challenges. Improving transport infrastructure is central to transformative regional changes, including projects under the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal and other funding initiatives. 

In a section covering EV charging, the report explains that both Local Authorities are proactively engaging in collaboration to deliver economies of scale for procurement and operation of a future expanded EV public charging network.

"However, we are conscious that the indicative funding allocation from Transport Scotland (EV Investment Fund) is less than 50% of the funding identified in the Scottish Futures Trust operational model. Through collaboration we are trying to maximise economies of scale for a future Charge Place Operator to deliver new public charging infrastructure as equitably as possible across our regional partnership, there is still a risk that our most remote communities will not be catered for without further public sector investment." 

And, it is suggested, there should be an increased role for the two ports which lie at each end of the sprawling region.

"Ports are a fundamental part of the transport system, and a crucial gateway to green growth for the South. Our key port assets at Eyemouth in the East and Cairnryan in the West enable the region to seize major economic opportunities such as offshore renewables investment, growth in transport of people and goods to the EU, import/export of green fuels as well as supporting fishing and tourism industries. There is considerable untapped potential which would contribute to Scotland’s future."