University of Westminster’s Reader in Transport Policy Dr Tom Cohen has contributed to the London Assembly Transport Committee’s latest report, Accessibility and Inclusion in Transport Planning. His insights into how accessibility and inclusion can be embedded into transport planning from the earliest stages were quoted within the document and he was invited to its official launch at City Hall, where policymakers and sector leaders gathered to discuss the future of inclusive transport in the capital.
The report examines how Transport for London (TfL) can better understand and meet the needs of Londoners who face barriers to using the transport network, including the disabled community, the elderly, carers, parents with young children and people from low‑income households. Dr Cohen’s written submission contributed to the Committee’s study of TfL’s Equity in Motion plan and the wider question of how accessibility and inclusion can be embedded into transport planning from the earliest stages.
The launch event on 13 February was hosted by Committee Chair Elly Baker AM, alongside other speakers from the Women’s Budget Group, Age UK London and Inclusion London. Stakeholders gathered at City Hall to mark the publication of the report, which was a culmination of an inquiry launched in 2024. The session highlighted the breadth of contributions to the inquiry, including written evidence from Dr Cohen’s colleague, Professor Rachel Aldred, Professor of Transport and Director of the University's Active Travel Academy (ATA), which was also cited in the final report.
Dr Cohen is a member of the ATA, which is renowned for producing innovative research in the field of active travel. Through its research the ATA aims to address the global problems that car-dominated transport systems have created. Examples include a project exploring the impact of new cycling infrastructure on diverse communities and a ground-breaking research paper showcasing the cycling experiences of UK-based women of colour.
This work highlights the University’s Being Westminster strategic vision of making the world a more sustainable, healthier and better place.
About the report, Dr Cohen said: “I was really pleased that the Transport Committee held this inquiry – the issue of justice in transport is hugely important but it often gets overlooked. I was flattered that my written evidence was quoted in the inquiry report. Let’s now hope that Transport for London responds positively to the inquiry’s recommendations.”
Dr Cohen’s research at the ATA directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3: Good Health and Wellbeing, 10: Reduced Inequalities and 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about studying Transport and Logistics courses at the University of Westminster.
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