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We welcome the ambition in the Bill to work towards net-zero emissions. The role of cycling and active travel should be recognised as zero-carbon option to help deliver the current targets and the aspiration for a net-zero emissions future.

We welcome the new arrangements for public health in Scotland and note reference to the six public health priorities as the underlying principles for this. In particular, we highlight the sixth priority - “A Scotland where we eat well, have a healthy weight and are physically active” - and stress the need for action to be taken on this.

Scotland continues to face a significant challenge in terms of vehicle emissions and there is a clear need to address these both as a significant contributor to climate change and as a public health issue. Cycling has an important role to play with regards to addressing climate change issues in transport, as a zero-carbon option.

The three key strategic outcomes outlined in the strategy will continue to be relevant over the coming decades. The one thing which needs to change substantially now in transport is to change the current focus away from cars (and other light motorised vehicles) as the default option, and instead re-focus on cycling and active travel as a real and positive alternative, particularly for short journeys.

Poorly parked vehicles can force pedestrians into the road. They can inhibit the independence of many vulnerable people and be particularly dangerous for older people, for families with pushchairs and for those with visual or mobility impairments.