The Queen's Speech announced yesterday made a number of announcements relevant to transportation.

Her majesty the Queen outlined measures for a new National Infrastructure Strategy saying:

This will set out a long-term vision to improve the nation’s digital, transport and energy infrastructure. New legislation will help accelerate the delivery of fast, reliable and secure broadband networks to millions of homes. [Telecommunications Infrastructure (Leasehold Property) Bill]. An aviation bill will provide for the effective and efficient management of the United Kingdom’s airspace Air Traffic Management and Unmanned Aircraft Bill. Proposals on railway reform will be brought forward.

The rollout of broadband will involve the need for strong collaboration with the highways and transport community to minimise the impact on the traveling public and impact on the infrastructure.

Given the impact of the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) at Gatwick Airport it is unsurprising that new legislation is being proposed in this area  through the aviation bill.  The Government promise action to modernise UK airspace to make:  'journeys quicker, quieter and cleaner, whilst also tackling the unlawful use of unmanned aircraft (drones)'.

The Queen's Speech stopped short of announcing legislation on rail reforms but promised to publish a White Paper on the ongoing Williams Review's recommendations on the future of the railway later this autumn, and then start implementing reforms from 2020.

CIHT recently launched a Climate Change Pledge and welcomed the focus on climate change and environment was also noteworthy.  The Queen said: 

My Ministers remain committed to protecting and improving the environment for future generations. For the first time, environmental principles will be enshrined in law. Measures will be introduced to improve air and water quality, tackle plastic pollution and restore habitats so plants and wildlife can thrive. Legislation will also create new legally-binding environmental improvement targets. A new, world-leading independent regulator will be established in statute to scrutinise environmental policy and law, investigate complaints and take enforcement action [Environment Bill].

To read the Queen's Speech click here.