The new Transport Strategy aims to reduce this environmental impact while ensuring the borough’s transport system supports its growing population
Hounslow Council has adopted a new Transport Strategy, laying out a bold vision for a safer, more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable transport network across the borough. With road transport currently responsible for a third of all CO2 emissions in Hounslow, the strategy aims to reduce this environmental impact while ensuring the borough’s transport system supports its growing population.
As part of the Council’s Opportunity Business Case for Growth, the transport strategy seeks to balance expansion with sustainability. A major focus is shifting away from private car use towards greener, higher-occupancy transport modes. Encouraging walking, wheeling, and cycling for shorter journeys is a central component, helping to improve public health by integrating exercise into daily routines.
A major focus is shifting away from private car use towards greener, higher-occupancy transport modes
A significant part of the strategy involves making active travel safer and more accessible. The Council plans to expand cycle training hubs and create public spaces that are pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly. This will help residents feel more confident using alternative transport options and make sustainable travel a more attractive choice.
The strategy is built around community engagement, incorporating input from residents, schools, businesses, and key stakeholders. Across two consultation phases, the Council held 63 engagement events, surveyed 1,800 secondary school pupils, and collected over 400 contributions through an interactive ‘map of priorities.’ This feedback has shaped the four core pillars of the strategy: enabling safer, more inclusive journeys; improving the local environment and addressing the climate emergency; developing healthier public spaces; and supporting fair, sustainable growth by enhancing transport accessibility.
Public input highlighted safety and accessibility as key concerns. While Hounslow benefits from strong transport links, including seven rail stations, eight tube stations, and an extensive bus network, residents have called for more step-free access at stations. The Council is responding by working with partners to introduce lifts and ramps where needed. In 2023/24, it contributed £1 million towards installing two lifts at Isleworth Station, making it easier for those with mobility needs, children, or heavy luggage to travel. The Council is also exploring step-free access improvements at Kew Bridge, Turnham Green, Hounslow West, and Gunnersbury stations. Additionally, a Public Transport Plan will be developed to enhance bus, tube, and rail services, ensuring residents have reliable and accessible travel options.
Councillor Katherine Dunne, Cabinet Member for Climate, Environment and Transport at Hounslow Council, emphasised the importance of the strategy in making travel more convenient and sustainable for all residents. “As a Council, we are committed to building a borough where travel is easier, safer, and more sustainable for all. And the new Transport Strategy for Hounslow will help us to achieve this. We’ve put together some short videos to show some of the projects and programmes that we are planning to do, based on what you said you wanted – you can watch the first video here.”
Looking ahead, the Council will launch a series of action plans to support its broader transport goals. These include a new Walking and Wheeling Action Plan, aimed at making pedestrian and wheelchair-friendly travel more attractive, and a Cycling Action Plan to enhance cycling infrastructure. The upcoming Public Transport Plan will focus on improving bus, rail, and underground networks, giving residents greater travel options.
Hounslow’s commitment to a greener and more accessible transport network reflects its broader environmental and urban planning goals. By prioritising sustainable transport, the Council is not only reducing emissions but also fostering a healthier and more connected community. As the borough continues to grow, the Transport Strategy will play a crucial role in shaping its future, ensuring Hounslow remains a great place to live, work, and travel.
