Scottish Government updates transport priorities in new delivery plan

The Scottish Government has published its fifth delivery plan for the National Transport Strategy, outlining progress over the past year and setting out actions for 2026, with a continued focus on reducing inequalities, cutting emissions, supporting economic growth and improving health outcomes.

image: Transport Scotland (extract from report cover)

The latest plan maintains the four long-term strategic priorities established under the strategy but places greater emphasis on delivery, monitoring and aligning transport policy with wider government objectives, including climate targets and economic transformation.

According to the government, the plan highlights progress made since the previous delivery plan published in late 2024, alongside a refreshed pipeline of actions across public transport, active travel and decarbonisation.

Key areas of focus include continued investment in sustainable and active travel, measures to improve accessibility and inclusion, and efforts to enhance the resilience and reliability of the transport network. The plan also reinforces the role of transport in supporting regional economies and enabling access to employment and services.

Compared with earlier delivery plans, the latest iteration places more weight on implementation and measurable outcomes, reflecting a shift towards demonstrating progress against the strategy’s priorities. It also aligns more closely with other national policy frameworks, including climate and economic strategies, indicating a more integrated approach to transport planning.

The document comes amid ongoing scrutiny of delivery across the transport portfolio, with previous plans setting out broad commitments and action lists. The fifth plan continues this approach but with a clearer emphasis on tracking progress and identifying completed and ongoing measures.

The National Transport Strategy, first published in 2020, sets a 20-year vision for a transport system that is sustainable, inclusive and accessible. The delivery plans are updated regularly to provide detail on how that vision is being implemented in practice.

Fiona Hyslop, Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Transport, said, “Transport is a fundamental part of daily life for people of all ages across Scotland. It is essential for wellbeing, enabling social connections, access to leisure and vital services such as healthcare. It underpins nearly every aspect of economic activity, but its impact extends far beyond economics.

“Transport is vital in reducing inequality and supporting Scotland’s transition to net zero. It connects people with communities and employment opportunities, particularly those who rely on it most. Our commitment to the removal of peak rail fares and the freeze on ticket prices are significant measures that help households retain more of their income while encouraging a shift from car use to more sustainable travel, contributing to climate goals.

“Major infrastructure programmes including dualling of the A9, upgrading of our ports and harbours and investment in modernising our ferry fleet play a central role in the delivery of our economic growth. And, to improve our health and wellbeing, we are taking forward active travel infrastructure improvements and implementing a range of road safety measures.

“Across Scotland, a wide range of partners and stakeholders – including local authorities, regional transport partnerships, businesses, and individuals – play an important role in delivering the National Transport Strategy. For the first time, this Delivery Plan also highlights some of the work being undertaken by our partners.

“The actions set out in this Delivery Plan continue to drive forward our vision for a sustainable, inclusive, safe and accessible transport system, helping to deliver a healthier, fairer and more prosperous Scotland for communities, businesses and visitors.”