When it comes to local politics, few topics get as much media heat as traffic reduction. Measures that encourage walking, cycling and public transport are often labelled “controversial” — yet time and again, those who speak up for healthier, safer streets are rewarded by voters.

With local elections approaching across England in May, now is the moment for candidates to show leadership and vision. If you’re standing for election, or supporting someone who is, here’s why being bold about traffic reduction isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s smart politics too.

👉 Our campaign page: Vote Low Traffic

Traffic Reduction: A Vote-Winning Vision

It’s a myth that the public is strongly opposed to low traffic measures. In fact, surveys consistently show that most people want cleaner air, safer streets and more reliable public transport. Support often increases after schemes are introduced and the benefits become clear.

Here’s what the evidence indicates:

🔹 Low-traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs) are popular.
A July 2023 poll by Redfield & Wilton Strategies found that 58% of Londoners supported LTNs, while only 17% opposed them.
📎 Islington Tribune: Poll shows LTNs have the public’s support in capital

🔹 Active travel wins votes.
In the 2021 London mayoral election, parties that backed schemes to improve air quality and boost active travel outperformed critics.
📎 The Guardian: Low traffic neighbourhoods popular with London voters, analysis finds

🔹 Pro-traffic reduction candidates win.
Analysis from the Centre for London indicates that candidates supporting LTNs and active travel measures often see electoral success, while those opposing such schemes may not fare as well.
📎 Centre for London: What do the local elections mean for Low Traffic Neighbourhoods?

 

Why Bold Leadership Matters

Standing up for change can feel daunting. But candidates who speak confidently about the benefits of traffic reduction — for health, safety, the economy and the environment — can shift the conversation and inspire support.

Here’s what bold candidates talk about:

🚸 Safer routes to school for children
🏪 More footfall and vitality for local shops
🧘‍♀️ Quieter, cleaner streets that improve quality of life
🌍 A real commitment to tackling the climate emergency
🚗 Less congestion for people who do need to drive

These aren’t fringe issues. They are mainstream concerns, felt daily by residents across England. And they deserve bold, honest leadership.

Be Part of the Movement

We’ve launched the Vote Low Traffic campaign to help make traffic reduction a key issue in the 2025 local elections. Whether you’re a voter, candidate or campaigner, we’ve got resources to help you speak up:

✅ A campaign toolkit with press release templates and FAQs
✅ A positive, research-backed message that works across party lines
✅ A supportive community that believes in better, safer streets for all

📣 Find out more and get involved:
👉 https://lowtrafficfuture.org.uk/vote-low-traffic

Share This Post

Help spread the word. Share this blog post with friends, family, neighbours — and with the candidates standing in your local elections. Encourage them to be bold, to speak with confidence, and to help shape a future with less traffic and more freedom.

Because safer, healthier streets shouldn’t be controversial. They should be common sense.

#VoteLowTraffic