Introduction
5.1 Despite the higher densities found within strategically significant cities and towns the dispersed pattern of settlements means that the region has a relatively low density of population.
5.2 Transport and the relative ease of movement within the region are therefore major issues which influence many aspects of social and economic life in the South West. The increasing concentration of many services into the region's larger settlements means that demand-based or commercially-based decisions regarding public transport provision can result in reduced access to key services and employment opportunities for many people outside these areas and increases car dependency.
5.3 The efficiency of the region's transport systems has a major influence on its ability to compete economically, to address some of the issues associated with social exclusion especially in the rural parts of the South West and to safeguard its significant environmental assets