Travel
Travel is a big part of everyone's daily life. Journeys range from travelling to work, shops, School or leisure activities. These journeys may use a single or combination of the following modes;
- Private Car
- Bus
- Train
- Cycling
- Walking
The way we travel has an effect on the environment and our health. Both individuals and governments have become increasingly concerned about the impact of the modern industrial society on the planet.
It has been estimated car commuting contributes almost 20% of all UK energy use. Cars travelling on business contribute a further 10%.
In 1998, the Government published 'A New Deal for Transport: Better for Everyone', which identified the need to reduce vehicle trips and use more sustainable forms of transport to the private car.
Green Travel Plans were identified as the mechanism to reduce private car trips and facilitate more sustainable and integrated transport. Green Travel Plans have since become Travel Plans.
Against this background, the format and content of Travel Plans have developed.
The need for Travel Planning is also identified within Planning Policy Guidance Note 13: Transport (PPG 13). PPG 13 states 'The Government wants to help raise awareness of the impacts of travel decisions and promote widespread use of Travel Plans amongst businesses, schools, hospitals and other organisations'.
The document also lists the following sustainable transport objectives.
- Reductions in car usage (particularly single occupancy journeys) and increased use of public transport, walking and cycling;
- Reduced traffic speeds and improved road safety and personal security particularly for pedestrians and cyclists; and
- More environmentally friendly delivery and freight movements, including home delivery services