To ensure that we can deliver on the ambitious vision, goals, and policies set out in this Core Strategy, we will:
- mobilise new organisational and governance structures in the LCCA
- develop LTP supporting documents, confirming programmes and schemes
- implement by securing funding, establishing appropriate delivery mechanisms, and monitoring success
LCCA mobilisation
We are currently in a crucial transition period. The formation of the new LCCA presents a game-changing opportunity to invest in our transport networks, paving the way to a stronger economy, fairer opportunities and a more sustainable future for Lancashire.
The LCCA was formally constituted on 11 March 2025, and currently the majority of transport powers run concurrently with the constituent transport authorities. From April 2026, all statutory powers will be fully transferred.
We are building a Lancashire that delivers. Rapid mobilisation of LCCA organisational structures, governance processes and assurance frameworks for transport investment will be key to ensuring successful implementation of policies set out in this LTP.
To this end, we will apply resources quickly and efficiently. From day one, the LCCA will have sufficient capabilities around three key areas:
- Transport strategy
- Public transport
- Investment programming
The precise operational details and working arrangements of the LCCA across each of these areas are currently being developed and formally agreed.
Develop LTP supporting documents
The new LCCA Transport Strategy function will develop the supporting LTP documents.
Once finalised, the overarching Implementation Plan will set out the strategic programmes of investment and priority schemes. It will sit as a separate document, alongside this Core Strategy. This will ensure it remains flexible and able to respond quickly to change. Once finalised, this will clearly set out the schemes which we will progress over the next four years. We will also produce:
Local Delivery Plans (Place-based Implementation Plans)
These will provide further detail on local programmes and schemes and their delivery. They will be based on suitable geographical areas (the new unitary councils), following the Local Government Reorganisation process.
Modal strategies
These include documents such as the Bus Service Improvement Plan and Enhanced Partnership, Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy (EVIS), and Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans. Existing versions of these have been prepared by the constituent councils of Blackburn with Darwen, Blackpool, and Lancashire County Council, and have informed the current identified pipeline of local schemes. These will be refreshed over time, as and when required, and will cover the whole of Lancashire or, where appropriate, smaller areas. We will also develop new Lancashire-wide modal strategies including:
- Rail Strategy
- Key Route Network Strategy
- Rural Roads and Village Strategy
- Active Travel and Placemaking Strategy
- School Travel Strategy
- Resilience Strategy
- Transport Data and Technology Strategy
- First and Last Mile Freight Study
Our modal strategies will directly inform future versions of the LTP Implementation and Local Delivery Plans.
Strategic transport investment programmes
The LTP Implementation Plan outlines the strategic transport investment programmes and how they have been prioritised, and sets out a phasing framework for development and delivery over the short, medium and long term.
The investment programmes are set out below and are grouped by the four LTP workstreams and consolidate the long list of measures that the LTP Core Strategy is expected to deliver.
| Workstream | Investment programmes | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Connecting Lancashire |
| Delivering major transport infrastructure projects that foster economic growth by improving regional connectivity and improving capacity to unlock growth. Examples include rail electrification and motorway upgrades. |
| Transforming travel choices |
| Enhancing public transport services and active travel routes (walking, wheeling and cycling) to improve accessibility, reduce severance and address transport-related social exclusion. Examples include increased bus service frequencies and enhanced off-road assets such as canal towpaths and bridleways. |
| Safe and vibrant communities |
| Creating safe, attractive, and welcoming environments that encourage community interaction, work, learning and leisure. This includes projects for public realm upgrades, step-free access and addressing existing road safety concerns. |
| Future-ready networks |
| Improving the reliability, safety and resilience of our transport networks through the adoption of new technology and innovative solutions. This encompasses everything from day-to-day network operations and maintenance to forward looking infrastructure for emerging transport needs. |
Implementation and monitoring
Funding
Delivering our LTP vision will require a flexible mix of funding, combining the Government’s multi-year LCCA settlements (Integrated Transport Fund and Bus Services Fund) with developer contributions and strategic bids for major national grants. We recognise the scale of investment needed to maintain and improve our networks, and will continue exploring innovative funding approaches with our partners to ensure our ambitions remain achievable and aligned with Lancashire’s long-term growth.
Delivery mechanism
We will establish strong programme and project management arrangements, supported by best practice, innovation and robust commercial and risk processes. We will work closely with Transport for the North, local government, National Highways, Network Rail and Great British Railways, and other key partners who own or operate major parts of Lancashire’s transport network. By developing our major projects collaboratively with communities, businesses and public service providers, we will ensure Lancashire has a stronger regional and national voice, and that our LTP vision is delivered through a co-ordinated, partnership-led approach.
Measuring success
Effective monitoring and evaluation will help us understand the impacts of our investment programmes. It will continuously improve both how we deliver schemes and the outcomes they achieve, while building a strong evidence base to support future funding. Through the Implementation Plan, we have established a proportionate monitoring framework linked to our LTP vision, goals and workstreams; using existing data wherever possible and expanding collection where needed to track progress and demonstrate success.
Our LTP Implementation Plan provides further detail around our approach to funding, delivery mechanisms and measuring success.