Transport and Movement

Category Background

To ensure people can reach facilities they need by appropriate transport modes, encouraging walking and public transport use and reducing the use of private cars for shorter journeys.

The Regional Approach to Transport in the RSS suggests:

‘Attractive, safe and convenient pedestrian and cycle networks linking residential areas, employment centres, town centres, schools, colleges and universities and other key destinations and linking smaller settlements and district centres to main town centres’ Draft South West Regional Spatial Strategy Part 5: Regional Approach to Transport Para. 2.6

Keeping facilities nearby so that inhabitants do not have to drive or take public transport is the first step to reducing traffic and the use of private cars. Local amenities, including shops that sell a wide range of products, including local produce, not only prevents driving to the bigger shop out of town but benefits local trades and promotes interaction within communities. The local shop, post office or pub in a village often becomes a social hub and provides a positive community identity and sense of togetherness.

But when facilities can only be reached outside the community, public transport links should be convenient, reliable and frequent. It is so important to have warm and safe waiting areas, for example well-lit bus stops with sufficient shelter and seating, to encourage more people to use public transport. It is also important to listen to the needs of the community who may have better ideas about where to place a bus stop having lived in the community for a long time.

Cycle paths around all roads, with information zones giving tips on cycling safely on roads, will also get communities to realise that using a bike instead of the car can be an enjoyable experience as well as reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Virtual communications, like the Internet, are alternative ways of stopping unnecessary travel and have become a reality already. Internet cafes reduce travel emissions with on-line communication and also create a social environment.

This section of the checklist will address:

  • Site location ICT infrastructure
  • Availability and access to public transport
  • Car parking – standards and flexible spaces
  • Cycle routes and facilities
  • Access to facilities
  • Traffic calming through design measures
  • Car clubs

Useful resources: