Travel Plan Derby

This travel plan for residential development was necessary to fulfill a specific condition imposed by the local council during the planning permission process. The council aimed to promote sustainable transportation options and reduce reliance on private vehicles, thus ensuring that the new development aligns with broader environmental objectives and community well-being.

To effectively implement the travel plan, iRIS consultants initiated the process by conducting a comprehensive survey of the residents. This survey was designed to gather detailed information about the modal patterns of travel in the area. We aimed to understand how residents currently commute, the frequency of their trips, and the modes of transport they prefer, whether it be walking, cycling, using public transport, or driving. This data was pivotal in identifying existing behaviours and potential areas for improvement.

Following the survey, our team conducted an extensive site visit, during which we carried out a thorough audit of the local amenities and transportation facilities. This included assessing the availability and condition of walking paths, cycling lanes, public transport stops, and shopping facilities. By evaluating these aspects, we aimed to ascertain whether there was sufficient infrastructure to support and encourage an increase in sustainable travel options. This audit was crucial in highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the current transportation landscape.

After gathering and analysing the data from both the resident surveys and the site audit, we established a set of robust yet achievable targets aimed at significantly reducing the number of individual vehicle trips made by residents. These targets were not arbitrary; they were based on realistic expectations of behaviour change, informed by the evidence collected during our research phase.

When we set travel targets, our approach goes beyond simply envisioning a scenario where every resident walks or cycles to work every day. Instead, we take a pragmatic view by calculating the total number of trips that will be made annually and estimating how many of these could realistically be shifted to more sustainable modes of transport instead of relying on cars. For instance, if a grocery store is conveniently located within walking distance from the residential units, we anticipate that residents would find it feasible to walk over to the store for quick errands, such as purchasing a pint of milk, rather than opting to drive, which would be less efficient for such a short trip.

In this particular case, with a grocery shop situated conveniently on the ground floor of the apartment complex, we were able to set some robust targets aimed at reducing vehicular trips significantly. This strategic location not only enhances the residents' accessibility to essential services but also promotes a lifestyle that favors walking and cycling over driving. By integrating such amenities into the residential design, we are fostering a community that prioritises sustainability and encourages healthier, more active modes of transport among its residents.