Local Elections: What do they mean for active travel?

Local Elections: What do they mean for active travel?

From Streets Ahead by Streets Ahead Podcast

May 18, 2026 · 43 min · Season 2 · Episode 41

About this episode

The episode discusses the impact of recent local elections on active travel and sustainable transport initiatives.

The recent local elections have created a national battle for power within the ruling Labour Party. After suffering substantial losses to Reform UK and the Green Party, even traditionally safe Labour councils have changed hands or been thrown into “no overall control”. Across the country, Reform UK gained 1,452 seats, the Greens gained 441, while Labour lost 1,498 seats. In this episode of Streets Ahead, Laura and Adam focus on the local fallout of those elections; this is the type of politics closest to local people, and it’s also the structure used to deliver sustainable and active travel schemes. Joining Laura and Adam are two guests with a deep understanding of local politics: Cllr John Morris , a Labour Councillor in Newham - Labour lost control of the Council and saw a surge in Independent candidates taking seats, leaving Newham in no overall control - but with a pro-car Labour mayor, Forhad Hussain. John was Deputy Cabinet Member for Highways and Sustainable Transport under the previous administration. Martin Price , outgoing Chair of Better Streets for Birmingham , a campaign group focused on safer streets and active travel. Birmingham is another one of those…

People in this episode

Hosts: Laura, Adam

Guests: Cllr John Morris, Martin Price

Topics covered

  • local elections
  • active travel
  • sustainable transport
  • politics
  • community impact

Keywords

  • local elections
  • active travel
  • sustainable transport
  • Labour Party
  • Birmingham
  • Newham
  • Reform UK
  • Green Party

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Labour Party, Reform UK, Green Party

Places: Newham, Birmingham, West Midlands

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