YORK'S transport plan has been praised by a Government minister.

Transport Minister Gillian Merron praised City of York Council's local transport plan for 2006-11 in a written answer to parliament.

Ms Merron, who visited York recently, said: "The City of York council's second local transport plan was assessed as excellent'.

"The excellent' classification means that the Department found evidence of a very high standard of transport planning. The plan builds on the foundations of the first plan, which has delivered a wide range of benefits for local people.

"These include the development of very successful park and ride systems and the new Overground' bus network, which will evolve into a comprehensive public transport network for local users.

"The City of York council has already reported a growing number of people using the bus network, in addition to the increasing numbers of people making use of the improved facilities for walking and cycling.

"Together with a robust parking management policy and the introduction of the urban traffic congestion management system, these improvements have delivered a significant reduction in traffic and cars parked in the city."

Coun Ann Reid, the council's transport boss, said: "We are delighted that the Minister has recognised the achievements of the council in developing the local transport plan. York has received a number of awards for transport planning in recent years, and I am delighted that the news of our success has reached the government."