The Government’s definition of a Travel Plan is  “A package of initiatives to tackle different aspects of transport, including commuter journeys, business travel and fleet management”. Travel Plans are thus a way for a  company or organisation to reduce the problems of traffic and inequality in transport.

Key motivators for developing a Travel Plan include delays and personal stress caused by traffic jams and parking problems and congestion resulting in poor air quality and increased noise pollution. Many sites have limited free parking for staff which gives a large subsidy to those with a car and discriminates against those staff members who use public transport, walking and cycling. Many organisations are not aware of how much free car parking is costing them or how much staff travel is costing

There are many benefits resulting from a Travel Plan. For example improved employee fitness by taking up walking and cycling; wider travel options for visitors and reduced business mileage. The Government requires new developments to have a Travel Plan as part of the planning process to reduce congestion and increase social inclusion.

For further information contact -

in Gateshead - Lorna Bell, Development and Enterprise, Gateshead Council, Civic Centre, Regent Street, Gateshead, NE8 1HH

Email: lornabell@gateshead.gov.uk. Phone: 0191 433 3095

in Newcastle - Sally Herbert, Regeneration Directorate, Newcastle City Council, Newcastle Civic Centre, NE1 8PD.

Email: sally.herbert@newcastle.gov.uk. Phone: 0191 211 6032

in North Tyneside - John Cram, Engineering Services, North Tyneside Council, Quadrant, Silverlink North, NE27 0BY.

Email: john.cram@northtyneside.gov.uk. Phone: 0191 643 6122

in South Tyneside - Antonella Mele, Town Hall and Civic Offices, Westoe Road, South Shields, NE33 2RL

Email: antonella.mele@southtyneside.gov.uk. Phone: 0191 424 7521

in Sunderland - Diane Vicary, Sunderland City Council, Development and Regeneration Services, PO Box 102, Civic Centre, Sunderland, SR2 7DN

Email: diane.vicary@sunderland.gov.uk. Phone: 0191 5617964