The council has won a grant of almost half a million pounds to help it persuade people to leave their cars behind in East Brighton – but the money cannot be spent on infrastructure such as cycle lanes.
The money has come from the Government’s sustainable travel transition year fund, and will be spent on schemes such as personalised travel planning, discounted travel for those who need it to find work and training, and cycle maintenance training.
The funding will also be used for road safety campaigns targeting those most at risk on the roads.
Councillor Gill Mitchell, lead member for environment, transport and sustainability said: “This award is great news as it allows the council to continue its valuable work helping families, workers, students and visitors to choose travel options other than the car. This in turn reduces congestion, improves bus journey times and brings health benefits along with cleaner air.
“We will be working closely with local businesses, universities, schools and employment services to make this transport transition year a great success.”
People living, working and visiting the area will experience major change in the coming years with developments such as Circus Street and the redevelopment of the Royal Sussex County Hospital.
The project, which will run until April 2017, aims to support the local economy by helping people travel in the area and remove some of the barriers that can prevent people from getting a job or accessing skills training.
By supporting people to choose alternatives to the car the project will reduce carbon emissions and encourage more active travel through walking and cycling.
The council successfully bid for the funding in a competitive process which was open to all transport authorities in England (excluding London).
Can i have a secure bike storage place now then please?
Walk, bus, taxi and bicycles. Could you give me the money please!
Bus travel is ridiculously expensive here – if you already own a car then it’s just a luxury you can’t afford to get the bus!