A new approach to travel information
In addition to the unique way in which they are delivered, the success of TravelSmart projects rests in large part on the range and quality of the travel information resources on offer to participating households. Wherever possible, projects use existing maps, timetables and information leaflets sourced from local authorities, public transport operators and other local and national organisations (e.g Department for Transport, Energy Saving Trust and Walking for Health). As well as reducing expenditure on new 'one-off' information materials, the use of timetables and other resources already in public circulation ensures that participating households become familiar with the publications most likely to be available in the months and years following completion of the project.
Nonetheless, experience from TravelSmart programmes in the UK and in other parts of the world demonstrates the value of two travel information resources rarely available in the UK:
- Local travel maps showing schools, community centres, shops and green spaces and how to get to them on foot, by bike or by public transport
- Bus stop timetables showing times and destinations for all buses using the nearest stop to the household concerned.
Sustrans recommends that similar resources are offered as part of all TravelSmart programmes and works with local authorities and public transport operators to develop them. Local travel maps and bus stop timetables are consistently among the most frequently requested items during ITM campaigns, and customer surveys suggest they are highly valued by participating households. As a result, in a number of instances, local authorities have rolled out local travel maps and/or bus stop timetables beyond the areas targeted by TravelSmart.