EUKN - European Urban Knowledge Network - Scottish government calls for sustainable transport communities

Scottish government calls for sustainable transport communities

Introduction

In March 2008, the Scottish Government and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities revealed their vision of the ideal neighbourhood of the future. Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson is making up to £15 million available over the next three years and calling for expressions of interest from Scotland's local authorities to help create a series of 'sustainable travel demonstration communities' across the country.

Proposition

How to achieve more sustainable transport in local communities?

Description

The sustainable travel communities would be a role model for others to follow, showcasing the very best methods available to encourage residents to use more environmentally-friendly forms of transport.

Similar schemes elsewhere have already led to impressive results. In Darlington (England), there has been a 14 per cent increase in public transport trips, 29 per cent increase in walking, 79 per cent increase in cycling and car journeys down by 11 per cent. These results have been achieved through simple measures such as improving cycle and walking routes, better public transport links, more pedestrian-only areas, travel advisors visiting homes providing tailored travel plans, car sharing schemes and discounts on bus and train tickets.

Minister Stevenson expressed that "the effects of this policy could be felt across all walks of life delivering a more vibrant Scottish economy, a less congested roads network, a cleaner environment, and a much healthier nation."

There are currently three 'sustainable travel demonstration towns' running in England - Darlington, Peterborough and Worcester.

The Scottish Government is looking for innovative ideas from local authorities. Activities could include:

Individual Travel Marketing (sometimes known as Personalised Travel Planning or travel blending) which provides tailored travel information based on the needs of the household;
Car sharing schemes;
Organised cycling and walking trips;
Discounted bicycles;
Infrastructure changes, more pedestrian/cycle/walking only areas
No car zones
Improved conditions for walking, footpaths cleared of obstacles; better managed and maintained streets;
More cycle lanes and secure cycle parking;
More park and walk as well as park and ride facilities
Improvement of green space;
Better use of public spaces to increase opportunities for recreational physical activity;
Greater investment in public transport - iimproved bus services, facilities and better public transport information;
Free bus and train tickets encouraging residents to give it a try;
Maps explaining how to walk or cycle to a local shop, or even something as simple as a timetable for their nearest bus stop
School and work place travel plans.

Contact info

The Scottish Government
Edinburgh
Phone: +44 - 8457 741 741
ceu@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

Publication date

07/04/2008

Article info
Organisation: The Scottish Government

Links

Click here for the Scottish government's press release on sustainable transport communities

Document type

policy

Themes

Urban Policy

Keywords

Transport and infrastructure