Transport and travel
Work has continued throughout the year in the creation of further Travel Plans with the publication of plans at The Harlequin, The Potteries and The Glades. Our travel plans consist of a package of measures aimed at reducing single occupancy car use amongst staff, retailers and shoppers through enhancing the provision of public transport and providing information on the various travel options available.
Where travel plans already exist, activities have taken place in furthering the awareness of sustainable travel to our centres. Amongst these activities are those detailed separately below as well as participation in the BITC sustainability exhibition at MetroCentre, updates and development of public transport guides where a need has been identified and a contribution to additional Christmas Park and Ride services in Norwich.
As part of the re-launch of the shopping centre web sites it is intended to significantly improve the transport information that is currently available through our web sites with links to public transport journey planners and cycling information planned.
Consolidation of key partnerships at both local and national level has continued throughout the year. These partnerships are with retailers, transport operators, government and Sustrans and include membership of the Department for Transport’s National Business Travel Network which was launched in 2007. A presentation at a national transport conference by our Sustainable Travel Manager was also given, outlining the challenges and opportunities of travel planning in the retail sector. These partnerships and contribution to the national travel agenda enable us to develop our sustainable strategies at each centre.
