TRANSPORT companies are linking up to boost investment into transport in the South East.

Network Rail, Highways England and Transport for London have all agreed to join the board of Transport for the South East.

Created in 2017, Transport for the South East brings local authorities and business groups together with the transport sector, and represents more than 7.5 million people and 300,000 businesses.

Councillor Keith Glazier, chair of Transport for the South East, said: “Transport for the South East has quickly emerged as a strong and effective partnership, bringing together leaders from the "public and private sectors to speak with one voice on our region’s transport needs.

"We are already working closely with Network Rail, Highways England and Transport for London as we develop our transport strategy and investment priorities for the South East.

"It makes sense to formalise those relationships, adding considerable technical expertise and strategic insight to our partnership board."

The South East has an important relationship with London, with more than 350,000 people commuting between the South East area and the capital by road and rail daily.

The number of commuters is forecast to rise over the coming years.

Alex Williams, Director of City Planning at Transport for London, said: “Good transport in London and the South East supports jobs, homes and a thriving economy, connects communities, attracts "business and plays a vital role in safeguarding the environment.

"Long-term certainty of funding is vital to ensure public transport in London and the South East does not roll back, but moves forward."