CALLS for greater investment in walking, cycling and public transport have put the spotlight on transport challenges facing communities across the Forest of Dean.

A coalition of 54 civil society organisations, led by Campaign for Better Transport, has urged the Government to make it easier for people to travel without cars following a summer of extreme heat and wildfires.

The organisations represent interests across public transport, walking, cycling, shared travel and environmental campaigning and want a greater proportion of journeys to be made using alternatives to private cars.

Campaign for Better Transport chief executive Ben Plowden said the country needed a “modal shift”, creating conditions which allow people to make more journeys by walking, cycling, public transport and shared mobility.

The call has particular relevance in the Forest, where rural communities can face limited public transport options and lengthy journeys to access work, education and essential services.

Gloucestershire County Council has previously identified poor public transport as one of the challenges facing the district, alongside difficulties travelling across the River Severn.

Many Forest residents remain reliant on cars, particularly those living in villages away from the district’s larger towns.

Campaigners argue improving alternatives to driving would help reduce emissions while making everyday journeys easier.

Domestic transport accounted for almost a third of the UK’s net greenhouse gas emissions last year, according to figures highlighted by the campaigners, with emissions from the sector rising by two per cent.

Mr Plowden said the majority of journeys were under five miles and better alternatives could make it easier for people to reach shops, schools, health services and friends and family.

The Government said it was investing £4.5billion in cycling and walking and was seeking to give people greater choice over how they travel rather than restricting car use.