A pioneering new initiative is helping make travel in Coventry smarter and greener for everyone.
The ‘Sustainable Travel Network’ is looking at all forms of travel in the city, from buses to cycling, to tackle challenges and use new technology and approaches to bring in improvements.
The Network is made up of the City Council and 17 major employers and venues to create a joined-up approach and shape the future of sustainable travel in Coventry.
It gives organisations in the city the chance to have their say on issues preventing their employees and visitors from travelling sustainably and what could be done to bring in improvements to help them – and the city as a whole.
Councillor Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration, and Climate Change said: “We’re making Coventry greener and better for businesses. The Sustainable Travel Network provides an opportunity for us to work with businesses on a range of initiatives that will enable them to encourage their staff and visitors to travel in sustainable ways. This could include car share clubs and cycling and walking provision as well as travelling as less busy times when there is less stop starting.
“Together it’s all about being better for travel, better for businesses, better for Coventry – and of course, the planet.”
Work so far has included revising bus routes, introducing new bus stop locations, and plans for extra cycle parking.
Joanna Smith, Estates and Sustainability Lead at the NHS Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board: “We are really pleased to be a part of the Coventry Sustainable Travel Network. The Network is helping us to develop an effective and sustainable workplace travel plan to meet our required ‘Green Plan’ at the ICB.
“We would encourage other organisations to work with the Council’s Sustainable Travel Network to explore best practice and find solutions to support staff and visitors to travel sustainably to protect the environment.”
Looking ahead, the Council plans to expand the Network across Coventry and develop new and innovative ways to help organisations identify and resolve transport challenges and opportunities.
Organisations interested in joining the Sustainable Travel Network can contact the team at travelplans@coventry.gov.uk.