The Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee has endorsed the general principles of the Transport (Scotland) Bill in its stage 1 report, but called for clarity on how several of the proposals set out in the bill will operate in practice and expressed concern that some of these measures may be a financial burden to local authorities.

The bill covers six different transport topics – the creation and enforcement of low emission zones (LEZ), options for more flexibility in the provision of bus services, smart ticketing, a ban on pavement and double parking, road works, the financing of regional transport partnerships and the governance of Scotland’s canals.

When considering LEZs, the committee noted that there is an urgent need to address the environmental and public health issues caused by poor air quality in Scotland’s towns and cities.

However, for LEZs to be a success, the committee called for improvements in public transport provision and park and ride facilities and for the Scottish government to set a national minimum technical emissions standard for vehicles entering a LEZ.

It also noted that as a result of LEZs motorists and businesses may face a financial burden in having to upgrade or replace vehicles to meet emissions standards, and this could be a particular challenge to those on lower incomes.

Whilst the committee acknowledged the widespread concern over the decline in bus use across Scotland, it noted that the bus service provisions proposed in the bill may not be sufficient to address the underlying causes.

The committee believes that the current provisions in the bill to allow councils to run their own bus services may not deliver the desired policy outcome given that it was strongly suggested in evidence that few local authorities are likely to have the financial resources to take advantage of the options set out in the bill.

Convener of the Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee, Edward Mountain MSP, said: “Having listened to a wide range of evidence from stakeholders and individuals, the committee supports the general principles of the bill which considers a number of different transport elements, including smart ticketing, low emission zones, pavement parking restrictions and tools intended to help improve bus services.

“However, greater clarity is required on a number of issues as the bill continues its parliamentary passage.”