The increase in car ownership over the last few decades has seen the development of many out-of-town facilities and has significantly added to the distance people travel, resulting in more congestion and pollution. The associated decrease in local shops and services has had particular impact on disadvantaged urban communities, where car ownership is often low, and on rural communities. People without cars can find it difficult not only to access shops but also other essential services such as learning and leisure facilities, work opportunities and health services.

Public transport and community transport schemes can contribute to addressing these problems but to halt the decline in local facilities, residents also need to be encouraged to buy locally and support neighbourhood amenities where these are available.

It is important that essential services, public transport, cycle routes and footpaths are integrated into new developments and, where possible, into existing communities. It may be necessary to provide incentives to encourage developers to prioritise pedestrians and cyclists. Planning for transport and access to large events taking place in the area could include providing special bus services and ensuring access and storage facilities for cyclists.

Working from home is becoming more feasible and increasingly accepted, and is a good way to reduce the need to travel as well as bringing other social, economic and health benefits. Access to broadband and new technologies, more flexible working and cottage industries, particularly in rural areas, can help to reduce travel.