South Ayrshire Council News

The results of an Employee Travel Survey are being used to create a Sustainable Travel Plan for South Ayrshire Council employees. It will encourage each employee to think green before they travel to and from work and during working hours.

Councillor Peter Convery, the Council’s Portfolio Carrier for Sustainability and Environment issues said: “The Council has already committed to the Climate Change Action Plan. Encouraging employees to think about the environment and consider other ways to travel other than by car will help the Council to cuts its greenhouse gas emissions.

“Small changes in the way people travel to and from work will make a real difference to the environment. For those who decided to walk or cycle to work, even one day a week, it will help to improve their fitness and reduce their travel costs. We have some of the finest cycling routes and walking routes in the country, so it is important to encourage everyone to use them.

Employees who filled in the survey were asked a wide range of questions including:

• Do you travel to work by car?
• Main reason for travelling by car?
• Would you be prepared to car share?
• What would influence you to travel by public transport?
• Would you consider walking or cycling?

Officers are already using the information within the Council to:

• Promote walking.
• Support and extend staff cycling.
• Reduce business mileage by private car.
• Encourage use of public transport.

As projects are developed further information will be provided on individual projects to employees and the wider public to help encourage others to think green before they travel.