Transport Minister Derek Mackay has launched a 'refreshed' National Transport Strategy (NTS).

Mr Mackay announced the new strategy today, 21 January, during an event in Edinburgh.

The NTS sets out the government's vision for transport delivery across Scotland, including investment in transport infrastructure, reducing carbon emissions and improving connectivity. The original strategy was launched in 2006.

Mr Mackey said: "This refresh of the National Transport Strategy is an opportunity to take stock of how we are performing against the outcomes set in 2006 and a chance to update the strategy that underpins our investment and policies in the transport sector to match the changed landscape of today.

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"What we have shown today is good news, not only in terms of how this Government is performing against the outcomes of improved journey times and connections, reduced emissions and improved quality, accessibility and affordability, but that the framework set out in the NTS is still working and relevant in informing how we continue to operate.

"Rail has performed particularly strongly with more passengers than ever before now choosing to travel on Scotland's railways, with the newly opened Borders Railway leading the line in this success.

"The Scottish Government has committed £5 billion to transforming Scotland's rail network, including £475 million for the largest-ever train improvement programme seen in Scotland.

"The NTS refresh has shown the framework set out in the NTS is still relevant so I am today re-affirming the vision, key strategic outcomes and high level objectives."

(LM/JP)