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Transport

Transport is one of the essential building blocks of health. It shapes how people move around their communities; by walking, cycling, using public transport or travelling by car, and includes the streets, pavements, bus and rail networks, and other routes that connect us. When transport systems are safe, affordable, reliable and well connected, they help people reach school, work, health care, shops and social activities. This supports independence, wellbeing and stronger communities. When transport is poor or inaccessible, it becomes a barrier – limiting opportunities, increasing stress for families, and worsening inequalities.

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Why is it important to health, well-being and reducing inequalities?

Transport is a key factor that shapes people’s lives. Poor transport access can cut opportunities short, especially for children and families experiencing poverty.

Transport influences health through:

  • Access to essential services: When transport is limited or expensive, families may struggle to reach education, childcare, health appointments or employment. This can deepen child poverty, reduce opportunities and increase daily pressures.
  • Physical activity and play: Safe streets, pavements and crossings make it easier for children and others to walk, cycle and play. This supports healthy development and builds stronger social connections.
  • Mental wellbeing and connection: When communities are connected by good transport links, people are less isolated. Long or stressful journeys, however, can increase fatigue, anxiety and reduce time spent with family.
  • Air quality and climate: Traffic pollution contributes to heart and lung disease. Creating low‑carbon, active and clean transport systems benefits everyone and protects health now and in the future.
  • Safety and community spaces: Streets designed for people, not just cars, reduce injuries and make neighbourhoods safer for active travel, play, and social connection.
  • Transport inequalities: Improving transport is an important way to reduce health inequalities and child poverty, particularly those affecting rural communities, low‑income families, disabled people, older adults and young people.

What is Public Health Wales doing to strengthen healthy and inclusive transport for the population in Wales?

We work with partners across Wales to strengthen healthy and inclusive transport by:

  • Providing evidence on how transport affects health, wellbeing and inequalities, including links to child poverty.
  • Supporting safe, accessible active travel so that walking and cycling are easy everyday choices.
  • Embedding health in transport and planning decisions, including through Health Impact Assessments.
  • Promoting cleaner, safer transport systems to reduce air pollution and road injuries.
  • Highlighting the needs of people and communities most affected by poor transport, ensuring equity is placed at the centre of decisions.

What action should be taken to strengthen healthy and inclusive transport for a healthier, fairer and more sustainable Wales?  

The following national, regional and local level actions should be taken to strengthen healthy and inclusive transport, to maximise population health and reduce inequalities in Wales:

National level
  • Invest in affordable, reliable public transport – especially in areas with high levels of poverty.
  • Support low carbon, safe infrastructure that prioritises walking, cycling and public transport.
Regional level
  • Improve transport connectivity between communities and key services such as schools, health care and employment hubs.
  • Coordinate planning and transport to ensure accessible, people-centred streets and public spaces.
Local level
  • Design safe streets that enable children to walk, cycle and play.
  • Work with communities to address barriers such as cost, safety, accessibility and rural isolation.
  • Ensure transport planning includes the voices and needs of families experiencing poverty.

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