This analysis describes the characteristics and scale of the transport sector and its impacts on the delivery of nature conservation objectives in England. It gives English Nature's objectives for the sector and sets out our three priority actions for 2001-2003. We also identify the key organisations and actions needed to influence policy and its delivery.

We outline the roles of the key players and shapers within the sector. The dominant influences in this sector are the European Union (EU), central and local government, the Highways Agency and local highway authorities, Railtrack and other transport promoters and lobby groups.

We examine the key socio-economic and political factors that shape the sector; these include transport's contribution to the national and local economies, its role as a major employer, people's reliance on cars and road infrastructure, and the growing consensus over the need for more sustainable use.

We analyse the positive and negative impacts of the sector on nature conservation. Whilst the analysis identifies the range of direct and indirect adverse effects on biodiversity such as the loss and fragmentation of habitat, it also recognises that there can be environmental gains through opportunities for biodiversity management and enhancement. The transport sector is a key component of all regional economies. In environmental terms, the south of England, and in particular the south east and parts of the Midlands are the main pressure points, although there is increasing demand for new transport infrastructure across all Regions.