The great thing about the Workplace Challenge is that if you can get people cycling, walking and even running to work it’s a quick and easy way to gain points and you can also get a head start on your travel plan. Travel plans help reduce traffic movement and congestion whilst making proven improvements to an organisation’s effectiveness by reducing car related travel to and from work and whilst on work related activities. This could for example include the further encouragement of:
- Car Sharing Schemes and reserved spaces for car sharers
- Cycling support – shower facilities, lock-ups and storage, changing rooms, pool bikes
- Implementing the tax free Cycle Scheme, allowing staff to purchase bikes and equipment at a discounted price
- A mileage rate for business trips completed by bicycle
- Public transport use for commuting and business trips
- Home and teleworking – using Laptops, Remote access, Telephony
- Revised working hours to miss rush-hour congestion
- Changing delivery and receiving times for materials etc
- Videoconferencing to avoid travel time for business meetings
- Encouraging staff to get off the bus a stop early, go for a lunchtime walk, cycle & ride instead of park & ride or even put up a couple of posters to show local leisure centre activities
More information on the benefits of implementing a travel plan for your organisation can be found by clicking here.
Alternatively you can visit the Big Wheel’s Business Club for lots of ideas and suggestions – including information on grants for active travel improvements to businesses.
