Steer’s Post

Our brand new e-bike share scheme, run in partnership with Stevenage Borough Council, is already having a positive impact across the borough. Launched on 1 October, the scheme has already generated over 8,000 sustainable journeys in its first month, with direct feedback from riders showing that around a quarter of those have directly replaced private car trips. This modal shift has already helped to save almost a tonne of harmful carbon emissions according to industry calculations - a big boost for public health and the region's air quality. Around 2,000 hours of physical activity has already gone into generating those journeys - another major benefit given that exercise is scientifically proven to aid both physical and mental health. Our bays at Stevenage Railway Station are proving to be the most popular with riders initially, which suggests that the scheme is already integrating well with the town’s existing transport infrastructure. Stevenage is one of the first schemes to benefit from our brand new BBE2 model, designed to be as safe, comfortable, accessible and technically advanced as possible so it feels more like an e-bike you would privately own. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/48sTwS4

It’s great to work with businesses in Tameside! Magpies Nest has taken significant strides towards reducing its carbon footprint while promoting active travel and supporting local businesses. Magpies Nest Ltd has partnered with Tameside Council, Transport for Greater Manchester and Manchester Bike Kitchen who are repairing and servicing the cycles, in trialling an innovative e-bike scheme. The e-bike trial, which is open to other Tameside businesses, aligns with Magpie’s Nest's commitment to not only reduce its carbon footprint but also foster a healthier and more sustainable way of living. Through the initiative the bike has been loaned to Magpie’s Nest so staff can use it for business-related activities, whether that’s for deliveries or cycling to and from work. Since last year, the Stalybridge business has been actively improving its eco-friendly practices, and the team has implemented various measures to lessen its environmental impact. From switching to energy-efficient LED light bulbs to meticulous recycling practices and utilizing timers for lighting, Magpie’s Nest has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability. Clara Horrocks, Magpie’s Nest shop manager, said: "We have the bike on loan for three months. It's been a fantastic experience so far. “The bike is free to loan and, although we need to provide our own helmets and safety gear, the positive impact on both staff members and customers has been undeniable. Residents love the idea of local deliveries being made on a bike, and commuting to work on the e-bike sets us up for the day, free from the stress of traffic." A Tameside Council spokesperson said: “As we embark on our journey to net zero, Magpie’s Nest's initiative in joining the trial of the e-bike scheme shows the proactive steps businesses can take to reduce emissions and promote sustainable practices. Their commitment to sustainability not only benefits the environment but also sets a commendable example for others to follow, as active workplaces can lead to healthier and happier staff.” Any businesses that are interested in trialling an e-bike should get in touch with Marie Hare, Tameside Council’s community initiative officer, by emailing Marie.Hare@tameside.gov.uk.

This article below taught me a term I actually hadn't heard before.....ie., "Bikelash", the backlash against measures to enhance urban cycling and other active transport. Bikelash seems driven largely by private vehicle users, in many cities. not wanting to be inconvenienced in any way due to an increased lack of parking space or road space. Many private vehicle users will agree that much needs to be done about road congestion, urban air pollution, climate change...etc. Many will also state that they would use public transport or even safe active transport routes more if they were available.....until those facilities become available and then the tune changes..... because often they become available in a space-scarce city environment at the expense of road space for the private vehicle....and that becomes a problem....well for the private vehicle user at least. Moving greater numbers of people out of their private vehicles requires not only the provision of safe and reliable public and active transport infrastructure and services. It also requires that private vehicles become less convenient and more costly to use, either due to less road and parking space available to them or due to higher taxes and tariff on their use in some manner....so as to reduce their use. The "inconvenient truth" about much-needed environmental preservation measures such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions is that cleaner energy and greater energy efficiency measures will only take us so far. Reducing the use of private vehicle transport....and raising the use of active transport.....along with reduction in consumption of a lot of things....is likely required, Perhaps becoming more a more "minimalist" society would be the word to describe it all. Active transport for short urban trips potentially reduces emissions significantly, and in some cities already has. But it also positively influence physical and mental health of the riders/runners/walkers....contributing not only to employee productivity and well-being but also to lowering health care costs potentially....is a further area of benefit. Active transport is also the cheapest form of transport, and thus especially beneficial for lower income groups....and the poor in SA's cities spend high portions of their income on transport. It's sad that Bikelash in SA quickly curbed once-promising cycle lane rollouts. But despite the hiccups, it seems inevitable that active transport will one day be a far greater share of overall urban transport....and will be major part of enhancing city quality of life...thus contributing to skills attraction and retention....and thus to economic performance for those that do it well. Because skilled labour is mobile and looks for life quality these days. There's a lot to it. https://lnkd.in/dQpt_gKW #cycling #bikelash #bike #activetransport #congestion #wellbeing

𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐄𝐫𝐚 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 2024 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 🚦   Starting November 4, 2024, the 2024 Guide to Transport Impact Assessment will officially replace the older 2002 version. This new guide introduces several key updates compared to the older "Guide to Traffic Generating Developments 2002" (GTGD 2002). Here are some notable updates from an engineering perspective:   𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐃𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭? 1. 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐥 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐬: The 2024 guide places more emphasis on multimodal network assessments, including not just road traffic but also public transport, cycling, and pedestrian impacts. 2. 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 (𝐓𝐃𝐌): New guidance on applying TDM measures to reduce car use, support public transport, and promote active transport options such as walking and cycling. 3. 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐩 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬: The 2024 guide provides updated trip generation data for various land uses, superseding the older rates used in the 2002 guide. 4. 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧: It now includes more detailed parking design guidelines, focusing on different modes, including bicycles and electric vehicles, in line with updated sustainability objectives. 5. 𝐒𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧: Guidance on managing site access has been updated to better integrate with multimodal transport options and meet safety standards. 6. 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: The 2024 version encourages the incorporation of digital infrastructure and smart city technologies, supporting better real-time traffic management and future-proofing designs. 7. 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: There is a stronger focus on environmental sustainability, requiring assessments to consider the impact on carbon emissions and climate resilience in transport design. 8. 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐤-𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐭𝐨 𝐓𝐈𝐀𝐬: The guide introduces a more risk-based approach to transport impact assessments, encouraging practitioners to prioritize safety, network efficiency, and environmental outcomes. 9. 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐲 𝐕𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: The 2024 update aligns with the latest Heavy Vehicle National Law (NSW) and provides more detailed guidance on the impacts of freight and heavy vehicles. 10. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: The new guide integrates more closely with state and regional transport strategies such as the NSW Movement and Place Framework, emphasizing the role of transport in creating livable places. Our team is prepared to integrate the latest practices into your projects, ensuring the assessment process is carried out smoothly and effectively.   Feel free to get in touch:   📩 Reach out: info@joces.com.au 📞 0493 717 888 🌐www.joces.com.au  

Demonstration of our considered and balanced approach to transport strategy in the Square Mile, we have approved changes to our Transport Strategy, following an extensive public consultation. Recognising the changes in how people are travelling and the pattern of travel post Covid-19 pandemic, as well as aligning more closely with the City Corporation’s local plan, known as ‘City Plan 2040,’ the Transport Strategy has been refreshed to focus more acutely on the needs of people walking and wheeling. Since the pandemic, walking and wheeling have increasingly made up the majority of journeys through and within the Square Mile. As such, the City Corporation is responding to these changes by: Working to deliver streets that are more inclusive and accessible for people of all ages and abilities – taking an increased focus on how we work with people to design streets and spaces as well as the end result. Making the most efficient and effective use of street space by reducing motor traffic, including the number of delivery and servicing vehicles; Working to ensure that no one is killed or seriously injured while travelling on our streets, including through measures to deliver safer streets and reduce speeds; Enabling more people to choose to cycle and scooter by making conditions for cycling in the Square Mile safer and more pleasant; and Improving air quality and reducing noise, including by encouraging and enabling the switch to zero emission capable vehicles. Adopted in May 2019, implementation of the Transport Strategy is already well underway, delivering a number of pedestrian priority schemes. Improvement works to King Street are now complete to make walking safer and ease crowding, with wider pavements, improved crossing facilities and traffic now one-way northbound. 18 months of major reconstruction works started in July on King William Street to make walking, cycling and bus journeys better with expanded pavements, better crossings, new trees and new seating. The Transport Strategy has been closely aligned with the City Corporation’s Climate Action Strategy. Climate resilience and greening works are both progressing and being completed at locations across the Square Mile, for instance, to combat future risk of flooding, the Bevis Marks Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) scheme was completed in June 2023, whilst the greening of Cheapside is underway and the relandscaping of Jubilee Gardens has begun. Accessibility around the City is improved every year, with this year seeing a further nine locations now benefitting from new raised crossings.

Benefits of the Pilot Project for the REIT Market The proposed pilot project to leverage The Dandy Horse's VIDAT technology for generating Carbon Avoidance Credits (CACs) presents numerous advantages for the Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) market. This initiative focuses on creating secured bicycle storage facilities, which align with increasing sustainability demands and can significantly benefit REITs in a competitive landscape. Enhancing Property Value One crucial benefit of the pilot project is the potential for enhanced property values. Secured bicycle storage facilities represent an attractive amenity that can elevate a building’s status and desirability among current and potential tenants. As urban populations grow and sustainability becomes a key focus for many businesses and individuals, properties that offer eco-friendly commuting options will likely outperform those that do not. Tenants are increasingly prioritizing access to cycling infrastructure, making REITs with such amenities more competitive in the real estate market. Cost Reductions through Funding and Carbon Credits The financial model outlined in the pilot project suggests that federal funds from the Carbon Reduction Program and revenues generated from the sale of Carbon Avoidance Credits will significantly reduce the capital expenditures needed for constructing secured bicycle storage facilities. This infusion of capital not only makes these developments more financially feasible for REITs but also enhances their bottom line, allowing for reinvestment into further sustainable initiatives. With potential savings of 50-70% on initial costs, REITs can allocate resources more effectively while maintaining profitability. Improved ESG Profiles REITs are increasingly under pressure to bolster their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) profiles. Implementing sustainable infrastructure, such as secured bicycle storage, directly contributes to ESG objectives and demonstrates a commitment to reducing carbon emissions. Participation in such projects positions REITs as responsible corporate citizens, improving their appeal to socially conscious investors and tenants alike. Enhanced ESG performance can lead to increased investor interest and potentially lower capital costs due to reduced risk perceptions. Strengthening Tenant Relationships Offering amenities that promote healthier commuting options can lead to increased tenant satisfaction. This pilot project could foster a community among cycling tenants, reinforcing their connection to the property and potentially reducing turnover rates. Tenants are more likely to stay in properties that support their lifestyle preferences, particularly in urban environments where commuting options are crucial. As a result, improved tenant retention and satisfaction can enhance revenue stability for REITs.

Eco30 challenge day 10 SUBSCRIBING TO GREEN TRANSPORTATION Promoting green transportation involves encouraging the use of environmentally friendly modes of travel, such as walking, cycling, public transit, and electric vehicles. Let delve into several strategies to promote green transportation by government and philanthropists: 1.Infrastructure Investment: Develop infrastructure that supports walking, cycling, and public transit, including bike lanes, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, and efficient public transportation systems. 2.Incentives: Offer incentives such as subsidies, tax breaks, or rebates for purchasing electric vehicles (EVs) or using public transit. Governments can also provide grants to businesses for installing EV charging stations. 3.Education and Awareness: Raise awareness about the environmental benefits of green transportation options through campaigns, workshops, and educational programs. Encourage individuals to make informed choices about their transportation habits. 4.Car-Sharing and Ride-Sharing Programs: Promote car-sharing and ride-sharing programs to reduce the number of vehicles on the road and encourage more efficient use of existing transportation resources. 5.Parking Policies: Implement policies that prioritize parking spaces for electric vehicles, bicycles, and car-sharing vehicles. This can incentivize the adoption of green transportation options. 6.Urban Planning: Design cities and communities with mixed land-use developments that reduce the need for long commutes and encourage walking or cycling for daily activities. 7.Encourage Active Transportation: Promote walking and cycling by creating safe and accessible pathways, installing bike racks, and providing amenities such as showers and changing facilities for cyclists at workplaces. 8.Supportive Policies: Implement policies that discourage the use of fossil fuel-powered vehicles, such as congestion pricing, low-emission zones, and fuel efficiency standards. 9.Investment in Public Transit: Improve the quality and reliability of public transportation services by investing in modernizing infrastructure, expanding routes, and upgrading vehicles to reduce emissions. 10.Partnerships: Collaborate with businesses, non-profit organizations, and community groups to advocate for and implement initiatives that promote green transportation options. By implementing these strategies, communities can reduce carbon emissions, alleviate traffic congestion, improve air quality, and promote healthier and more sustainable modes of transportation. #ECO30IMPACT #GREENECONOMY #UNSDG

New on WalkSydney.org: Submission on Guide to Traffic Impact Assessment Marc Lane and Regina Haertsch wrote a submission to the Draft Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, lightly edited below. The parts of the Guide that directly address walking are unobjectionable in themselves, requiring consideration of walking space and safe crossing locations. Our concerns are rather with the lack of imagination around continuing to design for high levels of car mode share, and this is what the submission focuses on. As the peak body advocating for walking in the Greater Sydney region, WalkSydney welcomes the opportunity to provide input into this new guide.  Transport Assessment should start with walking and cycling In London, a mandatory Healthy Streets Transport Assessment starts by identifying all the destinations within walking and cycling distance required to support a car-free lifestyle, and then identifying what infrastructure supports accessing them.  Where infrastructure is missing, the development must contribute to that infrastructure being built: Example Healthy Streets TA mapping of nearby destinations that would enable residents to live a car-free lifestyle – which results in the remainder of the transport assessment mapping walking, cycling and bus links within and around the proposal to be delivered by the project, in support of accessing the destinations above, by Arup for Meridian Waters, UK This approach turns on its head the approach of the Guide to Traffic Generating Development (GTGD) and, to a degree, the Guide to Traffic Impact Assessment (GTIA).  Rather than assuming a traffic generation rate (with slightly less, or more cars), It starts with the proposition that new development should be car-free.  This has a direct and clear line of sight not only to transport policy but also public health and Net Zero, which is equally important here.  Such an explicit objective will complement and be consistent with the NSW Government’s Transport Oriented Development Program.  As The Netherlands has demonstrated since the 1960’s, it is essential to design for a desired transport outcome. This same logic should be taken into Chapter 4 Travel Demand Management – requiring for example Green Travel Plans (ie reduction of car travel) as its primary aim, rather than merely peak-spreading or rerouting of the same volume of traffic elsewhere. The GTIA must adapt to the Climate Change (Net Zero Future) Act 2023 The Net Zero Commission is due to set sectoral targets including Transport, the second largest emitter after energy.  As WalkSydney recently stated to the Federal Climate Change Authority (CCA), mode shift is key to low emissions transport. The countries that are changing their transport emissions the fastest are doing so by embracing mode shift.  Compare Australia, where the CCA are predicting GHG emissions to rise from cars, vs France where GHG emissions from transport are stable and falling, particularly cars: CCA ‘O...

Thank you to EVie & Nick Perchard-Rees for helping making the start of my journey to🇨🇭more #sustainable, fun and for £10, very cost effective. Enhance Group we continue to seek sustainable transport methods. And check out Rainforest Trust UK which has a 4x booster for #offsetting! 🐯 Evie is one of those local businesses at the forefront of Jersey’s ambition to go #netzero by 2050 (I know, I know 🤷🏼♂️). Transport accounts for about 40% of Jersey’s carbon emissions, making it a significant contributor to the island’s greenhouse gas output. Jersey has committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, and the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is a key strategy in reducing transport-related emissions. For those that know me, you know I’m a 🚲 first kinda person, and recognise that EVs are no panacea. However, I’m pragmatic enough to know that in some circumstances 🚲 aren’t ideal. What we do know is that EVs reduce emissions by eliminating exhaust carbon dioxide and particulate matter. Over their lifecycle, they typically produce significantly lower emissions than internal combustion engine vehicles, especially as electricity grids become greener. There are c98,000 registered private vehicles in 🇯🇪, nearly one per person 🤯 Evie have recently launched their A2B service, perfect for St Helier to Airport/Airport to town one way trips, plus other locations across the island. Low 💰and the 🚙 are simple/fun to drive. They are also partnering with various developers such as Mike Waddington and Axis Mason to create car club schemes to benefit residents in new developments, which are great, esp. in St Helier where space is at a premium. Car clubs, such as Zipcar provide shared vehicle access and reduce the need for personal car ownership. Each car club vehicle replaces 23.5 privately owned cars in London, saving space and significantly cutting carbon emissions. In total, car clubs in the UK have removed approximately 81,388 cars from the roads. Car sharing not only reduces emissions but also encourages users to adopt other sustainable transport modes like walking, cycling, or public transit. Zipcar estimates its users drive 40% fewer miles than before joining, reducing individual carbon footprints. So, now the Action Plan has been launched let’s make a fast start Andy Jehan FCILT, FIoD, FCMI Government of Jersey Lyndon Farnham Steve Luce Lisette Jones Louisa Phillips let’s support local enterprise, reduce our emissions, create space for better use than parking cars for 95% of their time. Mini-parklets, children play space, green hubs can be introduced where car parking has been hogging our public space for too long. The solution is easy peasey, just think Evie! 🌳 🦋 And no, I wasn’t driving to🇨🇭in the Evie! Maybe when we have more certainty over our ⛴️ 😜 And for those that prefer the chauffeur experience, check out Ryde - Jersey Taxi Booking Charlie Petulla for a sustainable way to move around our beautiful island! 🚕

In my view the critical task to improve sustainability of urban transport and relieve cost-of-living pressures is to enable more households to meet their access needs with fewer cars than they now have. We are seeing some push back on shared escooters because they are creating conflict in pedestrian areas. Rather than create impediments for scooters, I hope we fix our infrastructure failings. This article is a reminder that scooters help fill the range of alternatives needed to enable more people to let go of a car. https://lnkd.in/gk5p8_pa