Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster
Residential Travel Plan
February 2019
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT LAND WEST OF SCOTFORTH ROAD LANCASTER
COMMERICAL ESTATE PROJECTS (CEP)
RESIDENTIAL TRAVEL PLAN
Report by: Daniel Grant
Bryan G Hall Consulting Civil & Transportation Planning Engineers Suite E15, Joseph’s Well, Hanover Walk, Leeds, LS3 1AB
Ref: 18-262-002.02
Date: February 2019
Report Reference No: 18-262-002.02
Name Signed Date
Report Daniel Grant 22.02.2019 prepared by
Report Nick Calder 22.02.2019 checked by
Overview by Rachel Bateman 22.02.2019
Distribution of Copies Number of Revision Electronic bound Issued to Date Issued copies
V1 Yes - Client Team 13.02.2019
Final Yes - Client Team 22.02.2019
CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION 1
2.0 NATIONAL POLICY 3
3.0 THE SITE AND ACCESSIBILITY 6
4.0 TARGETS AND MONITORING 13
5.0 TRAVEL PLAN COORDINATOR 18
6.0 TRAVEL PLAN MEASURES 20
7.0 ACTION PLAN 24
APPENDICES
Appendix TP01 Site Location Plan
Appendix TP02 Illustrative Masterplan
Appendix TP03 Walking Accessibility Plan
Appendix TP04 Lancaster Cycle Route Map
Appendix TP05 Cycle Accessibility Plan
Appendix TP06 Lancaster Bus Service Table
Appendix TP07 Lancaster Bus Service Provision Map
Appendix TP08 Rail Services summary table
Appendix TP09 Public Transport Accessibility Plans
Appendix TP10 Lancaster 017 & 018 MSOA Modal Split Calculations
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 This Residential Travel Plan (TP) has been prepared by Bryan G Hall (BGH) on behalf of Commercial Estates Projects (CEP) in respect to an outline planning application with all matters reserved, except for access, on land to the west of Scotforth Road, Lancaster.
1.2 The proposals by CEP are for the development of the A6 Scotforth Road site to accommodate up to 95 residential units, along with construction of a strategic link road, opening up vehicular and pedestrian access to land to the west of the West Coast Mainline (WCML).
1.3 The CEP application site comprises 5.06 ha of land historically used for agricultural purposes and has a 425-metre-long frontage with the A6 Scotforth Road. The development site is triangular in shape and situated some 2,800 metres to the south of Lancaster City Centre. The location of the site in the regional and local context is shown on the plan attached at Appendix TP01
1.4 The land to the west of the WCML is known locally as ‘Whinney Carr’ and forms a significant part of the proposed Bailrigg Garden Village (BGV), a new self- contained settlement of around 3,500 homes in South Lancaster. The CEP development site would represent a logical urban extension to south Lancaster.
1.5 A TP is best described as a package of measures designed specifically to reduce the impact of vehicular travel on local roads, by promoting sustainable modes of travel to and from a development. A TP has therefore been prepared to support the CEP proposals and establish from day one, the ethos of sustainable travel, both in respect to the first phase of development and the BGV as it comes forward.
TP Objectives 1.6 The overall aim of this TP is to influence the travel choice of residents to reduce the impact the development has on the local highway network. In order to achieve this aim the following objectives have been set:-
• Minimise the impact of vehicle traffic on the local network; • Reduce the number of single occupancy car trips; • Encourage active travel with gains for health; and • Ensure all residents are aware of their options for sustainable travel.
1
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
1.7 A TP is not a static document, it evolves over time and adapts to ensure it continues to reflect the needs of the development, any national or local guidance, on-site changes and best practice. As such it will be regularly reviewed and updated with revised targets and additional measures to achieve these targets.
1.8 Following this introduction, the report is set out as follows:
• Section 2.0: provides a review of national and local planning policy; • Section 3.0: sets out a review of site accessibility, specifically in relation to walking, cycling and public transport; • Section 4.0: details the Travel Plan targets and associated forms of monitoring; • Section 5.0: summarises the role of the Travel Plan Coordinator and provides necessary contact details; • Section 6.0: describes the Travel Plan measures to be implemented on site; and • Section 7.0: identifies the initial action plan for the site.
2
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
2.0 NATIONAL POLICY
National Planning Policy Framework 2.1 The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) sets out the Government’s planning policies and how they are expected to be applied. It was originally published in 2012 and revised in July 2018. At the heart of the NPPF is a presumption in favour of sustainable development (paragraph 11).
2.2 In relation to transport, the NPPF states at paragraph 103 significant development should be focused on locations which are or can be made sustainable, through limiting the need to travel and offering a genuine choice of transport modes. This can help to reduce congestion and emissions and improve air quality and public health. It is noted however that opportunities to maximise sustainable transport solutions will vary between urban and rural areas, and this should be taken into account.
2.3 The NPPF indicates that the decision-making process should take account of whether appropriate opportunities to promote sustainable transport modes can be – or have been – taken up.
2.4 The decision-making process should also ensure that developments which generate significant movements are or can be made sustainable, through limiting the need to travel and offering a genuine choice of transport modes. (NPPF para 103).
2.5 Development should protect and exploit opportunities for the use of sustainable transport modes for the movement of goods or people. Therefore, developments should be located and designed where practical to, inter alia:
• Give priority first to pedestrian/cycle movements, both within the scheme and with neighbouring areas; and second – so far as possible – to facilitating access to high quality public transport, with layouts that maximise the catchment area for bus or other public transport services, and appropriate facilities that encourage public transport use; • Address the needs of people with disabilities and reduced mobility in relation to all modes of transport; • Create places that are safe, secure and attractive – which minimise the scope for conflicts between pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles,
3
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
avoid unnecessary street clutter, and respond to local character and design standards; • Allow for the efficient delivery of goods, and access by service and emergency vehicles; • Be designed to enable charging of plug-in and other ultra-low emission vehicles in safe, accessible and convenient locations. (NPPF para 110).
2.6 The NPPF indicates that a key tool to facilitate this will be a Travel Plan. All developments which generate significant amounts of movement should be required to provide a Travel Plan (NPPF para 111).
Planning Practice Guidance – Travel Plans, Transport Assessments and Statements in Decision-Taking 2.7 Planning practice guidance (2014) states that:-
‘…Travel Plans are long-term management strategies for integrating proposals for sustainable travel into the planning process’.
2.8 This guidance states that Travel Plans should identify specific required outcomes, targets and measures, and set out clear future monitoring and management arrangements, all of which should be appropriate. They should also consider what additional measures may be required to offset unacceptable impacts if the targets should not be met.
2.9 It identifies that:-
“…Travel Plans, Transport Assessments and Statements can positively contribute to:-
• encouraging sustainable travel; • lessening traffic generation and its detrimental impacts; • reducing carbon emissions and climate impacts; • creating accessible, connected, inclusive communities; • improving health outcomes and quality of life; • improving road safety; and • reducing the need for new development to increase existing road capacity or provide new roads. • They support national planning policy which sets out that planning should actively manage patterns of growth in order to make the fullest possible use of public transport, walking and cycling, and focus
4
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
significant development in locations which are or can be made sustainable.”
2.10 The suite of PPG documents is out to consultation and is likely to be revised later in 2018. Upon release it may be necessary to review the changes to this document and take into account any implications for the development in respect of the TP.
2.11 With respect to local transport policy, specific to this TP, Chapter 2.0 of the Transport Assessment (TA) sets these out in detail. Relevant are:-
• Department of Transport Guidance on Transport Assessments • Lancaster Core Strategy (2003-2021) – Policies SC1, SC2 and E2; • Lancaster Local Plan Update (2017) • Lancashire Local Transport Plan (2011-2021) – Aims and Objectives; • Planning Advisory Note (PAN); Provision of Electric Vehicle Charging Points for New Development and • Development Management DPD (2011-2031) - Policies DM20, DM21, DM22, DM23 and DM61
2.12 Policy DM61 of Lancaster Development Management DPD outlines that the council supports proposals which ‘maximise the opportunities for sustainable travel’. The policy claims developments should take measures to contribute to improving transport infrastructure and promoting sustainable methods of transport. Proposals generating a significant impact on the road network should be in a sustainable location and support in outline will be provided for developments where a travel plan demonstrates appropriate mitigation measures can be achieved with a clear delivery approach.
2.13 This TP has been written in conjunction with the Transport Assessment and the above policies in line with national and local guidance. In line with Policy DM61 the TP will require ongoing management to deliver outcomes in the form of measures, monitoring and review.
5
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
3.0 THE SITE AND ACCESSIBILITY
The Site 3.1 The CEP application site comprises 5.06 ha of land historically used for agricultural purposes and has a 425-metre-long frontage with the A6 Scotforth Road. The development site is triangular in shape and situated some 2,800 metres to the south of Lancaster City Centre.
3.2 In its immediate context the site is bounded:-
• To the east by the A6 Scotforth Road, beyond which lies a small residential development of seven dwellings under construction known as ‘Aikengill’ and the Collingwood Park residential area; • To the west by the WCML, beyond which lies the Whinney Carr site (as described in the introduction); • To the north by the Lawson’s Bridge development site which benefits from planning permission for a food store by operators Booths (yet to be constructed) and Rays Drive which demarcates the current extent of the South Lancaster residential area; and • To the south by a small area of agricultural land, beyond which is the Burrow Beck watercourse and the site known as the ‘Filter House’ which is in the process of being developed for student accommodation.
3.3 An illustrative site layout showing how the site could be developed in the future in addition to a site parameters plan are attached at Appendix TP02. The roads within the site will be designed in accordance with the principles of Manual for Streets, to ensure that a high priority is placed on meeting the needs of pedestrians and cyclists, so that growth in these modes of travel is encouraged, and creating a network of streets that provide permeability and connectivity within the development whilst being designed to keep vehicle speeds at or below 20 mph on the residential streets.
3.4 The site will benefit from a small network of high quality pedestrian and cycle connections within the site which will link the site with the existing footway provision within the adjacent road network, these will connect with the link road / roundabout and directly to the A6 Scotforth Road to allow direct access to the wider highway network and ultimately Whinney Carr. All footways will be designed to a minimum standard of 2.0 metres in width. Suitable crossing provision will be provided to allow access across the link road. The crossing
6
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
facilities on the link road will be determined as part of any future reserved matters applications.
3.5 Direct links will also be provided from the development site to the A6 Scotforth Road and proposed bus stops to the south of the site access. The proposed site access will provide controlled crossing points and a continuous footway provision on the development side in a northbound direction, connecting with the site access arrangements at the proposed Booth’s food-store and delivering a continuous footway connection along the site frontage from the site access to the existing footway on the west side of Scotforth Road to the south of Rays Drive.
3.6 According to goultralow.com the nearest electric vehicle charging points are located approximately 1,700m from the centre of the site at the Lancaster Institute of Contemporary Arts, a part of the main Lancaster University campus. This charging point location is one of a number on the campus and has 3 devices that can be used for vehicle charging.
Walking 3.7 The Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT) publication (2000) ‘Guidelines for providing for journeys on Foot’ notes that walking accounts for over a quarter of all journeys and four fifths of journeys less than one mile (1.6 kilometres).
3.8 Walking is also an essential part of public transport travel with bus stops and in some instances railway stations being accessed on foot. Promoting sustainable, integrated transport involves providing good pedestrian links to the public transport facilities, which are currently available from the development site.
3.9 The CIHT Guidelines also describe ‘acceptable’ walking distances for pedestrians without any mobility impairment. The recommended desirable, acceptable and preferred maximum walking distances for commuting/school and other journeys, such as retail/shopping, are shown in Table 3.1 overleaf.
7
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
Table 3.1: Recommended Walking Distances
Trip Purpose
Other Journeys Commuting/School (Retail/Shopping)
Desirable Maximum Distance 500 metres 400 metres
Acceptable Maximum 1,000 metres 800 metres Distance
Preferred Maximum Distance 2,000 metres 1,200 metres
3.10 The proposed development site is a circa 700 metre walk from a wide range of facilities in the local settlement centre of Scotforth. In order to access this area, residents would leave the site access crossing using the crossing facilities at the site access junction and walk north up to the traffic signal controlled A6 Scotforth Road/Hala Road junction. Before continuing north along the footway on the eastern side of Scotforth Road, for roughly 8 minutes.
3.11 Local facilities that are accessible on foot include a post office, Booths supermarket, various shops, a nursery, a garage, two petrol stations, public houses and Lancaster masonic hall.
3.12 The preferred maximum distance for journeys on foot to schools is up to 2,000 metres. The nearest school to the site is Scotforth St Paul’s C of E Primary School which is roughly a 1,200 metre walk from the centre of the site to the north along Scotforth Road.
3.13 Additional schools in the nearby area include Bowerham Primary School and Ripley St Thomas Church of England Academy which are both roughly 2,200 metres from the centre of the site. The strong bus route provision along Scotforth Road means there is sufficient capability for these schools to be accessed by sustainable methods of travel from the site.
3.14 The walking accessibility plan at Appendix TP03 shows a 400m, 800m, 1200m, 1600m and 2000m catchment area around the application site. The plan has been prepared in the GIS accessibility programme ‘TRACC’ and demonstrates that the site is well within the acceptable walking distance of 1200m from the available services within Scotforth.
8
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
Cycling 3.15 Cycling has clear potential to substitute for short car trips. The CIHT publication “Planning for Cycling” (October 2014) states that cycling is one of the most sustainable forms of transport, and it has great potential for increases in use. The report states that the majority of cycling trips are for short distances, with 80% being less than 5 miles (8 kilometres).
3.16 500 metres to the north of the site along A6 Scotforth Road designated cycle lanes emerge on each side of the road, these lanes continue intermittently into Lancaster city centre, making it a viable and attractive cycle route and creating the potential for cycling to form part of a longer journey by public transport.
3.17 At the Hala Road junction, the A6 Scotforth Road to the south has a short length of on-road cycle lane leading up to the junction, and all 4 approaches at the junction have an advanced cycle stop lane.
3.18 Local amenities within Scotforth and the centre of Lancaster are located within a convenient cycle ride of the development site including the railway station which has an existing facility providing secure cycle parking with covered stands by both entrances to the station. With respect to wider access, the cycle map attached at Appendix BGH7, produced by Lancaster City Council, identifies advisory, signed and traffic free cycle routes around Lancaster and Morecambe.
3.19 Furthermore, the Lancaster City Council map draws attention to the large number of pedestrian streets in the city centre, on which cycle travel is permitted and the off-road paths, most significantly along the River Lune and Lancaster Canal a short distance from the site. An off-road path runs some 300 metres from the south extent of the site connecting Collingham Park to Bailrigg Lane. This route can be used to access Lancaster University from the site without relying on using the A6 Scotforth Road.
3.20 The nearest National Cycle Network (NCN) route is Route 6 in Stodday roughly 3700 metres from the site. The route connects with a number of other NCN routes and runs as far south as London passing through, Preston, Manchester and Sheffield among other locations to the south. More immediately the NCN Route 6 provides a connection to the centres of Lancaster and Morecambe.
3.21 The cycling accessibility plan attached at Appendix TP05 has been prepared using the Visography TRACC software. The plan shows the area that can be accessed within 8 kilometres by cycle from the site. The majority of Lancaster including the city centre and the city’s railway station, are within a 5 kilometre radius indicating the potential for residents to consider cycling as a mode of travel.
9
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
Public Transport Bus 3.22 The Institution of Highways and Transportation publication ‘Planning for Public Transport in Development’ states:
“The maximum walking distance to a bus stop should not exceed 400m and preferably be no more than 300m. These distances are quoted for guidance, and should not be followed slavishly if that would lead to complex or indirect bus routes”
3.23 ‘Planning for Public Transport in Developments’ also sets out that new development should be located so that walking distance to the nearest bus stop should be less than 400 metres and less than 200 metres in city centres.
3.24 The nearest stops to the site are along Scotforth Road by the junction with Rays Drive and Whinfell Drive. These stops area located on both sides of the road to the north of the site, roughly 260m from the centre of the site, providing a bus shelter and timetabled information.
3.25 A summary of the services available at these bus stops is attached in Appendix TP06, with links provided to local destinations including Lancaster, Heysham, Morecambe, Preston and Garstang. A map showing services in the wider area detailing the route each of specific service is attached in Appendix TP07.
Rail 3.26 Lancaster railway station is located approximately 3.4km to the north of the site. Although this is outside of the distance recommended by good practice guidance for access to stations (800 metres as per The Institution of Highways and Transportation notes in ‘Planning for Walking’) the frequency and direct nature of bus services from outside the site along Scotforth Road to Lancaster City Centre provides easy access to the station. Furthermore, the appeal of the stations rail services means that travel to the station is unlikely to be a significant barrier for residents using its services.
3.27 From the site, pedestrians would walk along the footway on the eastern side of A6 Scotforth Road, crossing the dropped kerbs at the site access junction for approximately 2,100 metres to the roundabout with Ashton Road and Bowerham Road. At this junction pedestrians would continue across the roundabout onto Penny Street, which becomes King Street, for some 950 metres passing through Lancaster city centre. At the end of King Street, a left turn onto Meeting House Lane after some 350 metres brings pedestrians out at the access lane for the station.
10
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
3.28 For cyclists travelling to the railway station, following the same route is the quickest way to access the station taking roughly 11 minutes. However, an alternative route, taking 14 minutes, can be used to take advantage of traffic free cycle path provision in the area. From leaving the site, cyclists would travel north along the A6 Scotforth Road before continuing left onto Ashford Road, after some 1,400 metres cyclists can access the Lancaster canal side path. The path passes Aldcliffe village and Fairfield Nature reserve before re-joining the road network by the Royal Lancaster Infirmary. From this point after a short sharp left onto Carr House Lane and taking the second right turn cyclists are brought out on Dallas Road. Dallas Road runs for roughly 600 metres before joining Meeting House Lane, 100 metres before the right turn for Lancaster station.
3.29 Lancaster railway station provides 163 car parking spaces, including 6 accessible spaces. There are also 135 sheltered bicycle storage spaces across the station.
3.30 There are up to 11 rail services an hour, in the morning and evening peak hours from Lancaster to various destinations. Destinations accessible from Lancaster include London Euston, Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly, Leeds, Preston, Morecambe to the south and Barrow in Furness, Glasgow Central and Edinburgh to the north. Services from the station are provided by Virgin Trains, Northern Rail and First group.
3.31 From Lancaster railway station, journeys south to Manchester takes 1 to 1.5 hours while getting to London takes roughly 2.5 hours. Appendix TP08 outlines the service frequency and journey times for the journey. It should be noted that the Carlisle service, is not the most direct route to the town, this is the Virgin Trains service to Edinburgh. The northern service to Carlisle stops at multiple request stops across Cumbria.
3.32 The site is considered to be very well connected to encourage journeys via public transport. The public transport accessibility plans attached at Appendix TP09 have been prepared using the Visography TRACC software and show the large area that can be reached within 60 minutes travel on public transport.
3.33 The plans demonstrate that in both the morning and evening peaks within 60 minutes travel from site areas to the north of Kendal can be accessed and an area stretching as far as the northern suburbs of Preston can be accessed travelling south. The plans also demonstrate the strong public transport accessibility in the intermediate area, with the majority of the city of Lancaster accessible within 30 minutes travel on public transport.
11
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
Summary 3.34 The site is located within convenient walking and cycling distance of a number of local facilities, bus stops and Lancaster city centre, including Lancaster railway station. There are opportunities for sustainable travel to/from the site by walking, cycling and use of the bus. These modes of travel can be combined with travel by rail to form part of a longer multi modal journey to destinations further afield.
12
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
4.0 TARGETS AND MONITORING
4.1 One of the major indicators by which the success of the TP will be measured is by the modal shift towards sustainable modes of travel. Baseline modal split proportions first need to be identified before realistic targets can be set and used to measure any shift in travel patterns.
4.2 In the absence of any baseline data, the presumed modal split for the residential element of the development has been derived from National Statistics Census 2011 data for Method of Travel to Work, for the Middle Super Output Areas (MSOA) of Lancaster 017 and 018.
4.3 The CEP development site is located within the Middle Super Output Area (ref: 019) which covers a large area of south Lancaster (which is currently undeveloped land) and Lancaster University. With respect to understanding growth rates and travel to work patterns, detailed below, the 019 area is considered to be unrepresentative of the proposed development, further information on this is set out within the supporting Transport Assessment.
4.4 The existing built up residential areas located to the north-west of Scotforth Road (ref: 017) and to the north-east of Scotforth Road (ref: 018) have therefore been adopted as more appropriate growth areas. The individual modal split calculations for the two areas are attached in Appendix TP10 while the average figures for the two areas are shown in Table 3.1 overleaf.
13
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
Table 3.1 National Statistics Census 2011 Ward Data Lancaster 017 & Lancaster 018 MSOAs Method of Travel to Work
Modal Split Percentage Split
Train 2.8%
Bus, minibus or coach 8.1%
Car or Van Driver 54.2%
Car or Van Passenger 5.9%
Motorcycle 0.9%
Bicycle 6.1%
On Foot 21.6%
Taxi 0.3%
Underground, metro, light rail or tram 0.1%
Total 100%
4.5 To provide a percentage breakdown of different modes of transport which were used to travel to/from work by people living within the full area, adopted averages for area 017 and 018 have been taken. Table 3.1 above shows the average figures for the two areas. These percentages can then be applied in part to the development and form the basis of discussions with Lancashire County Council from which reductions in car use can be agreed.
4.6 The data shows that 54.2% of people within the two Middle Super Output Areas of Lancaster 017 and Lancaster 018 travel to work by car whilst; 21.6% travel on foot, 6.1% travel by bike, 8.1% by bus 5.9% car share and 2.8% travel by train.
14
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
4.7 Given the existing and proposed provision for sustainable transport within the vicinity of the site, there is scope to reduce the percentage of car drivers, and increase those using public transport, walking and cycling. The use of sustainable modes of travel as a viable alternative will be promoted to residents through the measures outlined in Chapter 6.0 of this Travel Plan.
Surveys 4.8 Travel surveys will be undertaken on an annual basis as a measure of existing travel patterns on site. The first survey will be undertaken when 50% of the site is occupied and surveys thereafter will be undertaken on the anniversary of that date for a period of 5 years.
4.9 The format of the survey, approach to data collection and the questions asked will be agreed with LCC. Results from the travel surveys will be shared with LCC within 3 months of collection in the form of a monitoring report. Results from the first travel survey will be used to refine modal split targets in agreement with LCC.
4.10 As annual surveys are undertaken progress towards an increase in residents using sustainable modes of travel will be captured and compared to the baseline modal split data. Year on year the TPC will seek to increase the response rate to the surveys. Anecdotal feedback from residents will also be captured through their awareness, understanding and engagement with the TP.
Targets 4.11 An indicative target for those living at Scotforth Road would be to reduce the number of single occupancy vehicle trips by 5%, given the relatively low proportion of SOV travel derived from the census data, this target would be agreed with LCC. This equates to a 2.7 percentage point reduction from 54.2% to 51.5% with a corresponding increase in sustainable modes of travel of 5.4 percentage points. This reduction in SOV travel (of 2.7 percentage points) has been split equally between the three most likely sustainable modes of travel, given the location of the site and available opportunities locally for travel by sustainable modes the following modes of travel have been identified as likely options for increased usage; bus travel, cycling and car sharing.
4.12 It is an aim of this TP to achieve this target within 5 years following completion of the first surveys. Table 3.2 overleaf summarises the existing modal split interim targets based on National Census 2011 Data.
15
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
Table 3.2 National Statistics Census 2011 Ward Data Lancaster 017 & Lancaster 018 MSOAs Target Modal Split
Mode of Travel Modal Split Target Modal Split
Train 2.8% 2.8%
Bus, minibus or coach 8.1% 9.0%
Car or Van Driver 54.2% 51.5%
Car or Van Passenger 5.9% 6.8%
Motorcycle 0.9% 0.9%
Bicycle 6.1% 7.0%
On Foot 21.6% 21.6%
Taxi 0.3% 0.3%
Underground, metro, light rail or tram 0.1% 0.1%
Total 100% 100%
4.13 In addition to the modal split targets outlined above, the objectives of this Travel Plan will be actively pursued as the Travel Plan is implemented, as detailed in Table 3.3 overleaf.
16
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
Table 3.3 Travel Plan Objectives
Objective Target Measures
Minimise the impact of That residents are choosing sustainable vehicle traffic on the modes of travel where reasonably Through travel surveys local network practicable for most of their journeys. Reduce the number of To achieve a reduction in the number of trips by single occupancy single occupancy car trips to and from Through travel surveys travel the site each year. To ensure that awareness of the health, Encourage active travel financial and environmental benefits of Through travel surveys with gains for health environmentally friendly modes of travel increase each year. Ensure all residents are To ensure that residents are considering aware of their options a sustainable journey choice when Through travel surveys for sustainable travel travelling
4.14 This Travel Plan will seek to achieve these targets through the measures described in Chapter 6.0.
4.15 Whilst the primary objective of this TP will be to achieve a reduction in dependence on private cars (particularly single occupancy journeys), a less direct objective will be to increase resident’s awareness of the advantages and the potential for more environmentally friendly modes of travel.
17
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
5.0 TRAVEL PLAN COORDINATOR
5.1 The TP will be promoted and administered by the Travel Plan Coordinator (TPC). The primary responsibilities of the TPC will be:
• To work closely with LCC to ensure a partnership approach is adopted and the TP accords with the requirements set out by the council; • To promote and guide the development of the Scotforth Road TP; • To retain an awareness of local and national transport policies and travel planning best practice to ensure that the TP remains current and that LCC and service providers remain aware of the needs of residents; • To implement the measures contained in this TP; • To encourage residents where possible to adopt sustainable modes of travel for journeys, in particularly to nearby amenities. • To monitor the effectiveness of the TP on an annual basis and compare usage of the different modes of travel to the modal split targets agreed.
5.2 It is important to ensure that the commitment to promoting sustainable transport is identified at the earliest opportunity. For the development this will be demonstrated during the marketing process as potential residents consider moving to the site.
5.3 The TPC will be appointed for a period of at least 5 years following 50% occupation.
5.4 An appropriate budget will be made available to ensure the TPC is supported and the implementation is appropriately funded throughout the life of the TP.
5.5 The TPC will be responsible for preparing, undertaking and reviewing the data collected from the travel surveys. The surveys will be undertaken once 50% of the site is occupied. The travel survey will ask residents to share how they currently travel and what would encourage them to travel by more sustainable modes.
5.6 The TPC will discuss the results of the initial travel survey with LCC to ensure the targets outlined in Chapter 4.0 are considered appropriate.
5.7 The TPC will ensure that all of the necessary data collection, recording and monitoring is undertaken and that the travel guide, travel surveys and on site information is established, maintained and regularly updated
18
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
5.8 The TPC will liase with officers at LCC to ensure a close working relationship is established.
5.9 The TPC will review the TP annually following the travel surveys, assessing how travel patterns have changed in the last 12 months, providing an opportunity to review progress towards the TP targets. The TPC will formally submit the results of the travel surveys to LCC for their records.
Contact Details of the TPC 5.10 At this stage Bryan G Hall will be the primary contact for any TP queries. Contact details are as follows:
Travel Plan Coordinator Bryan G Hall Suite E15, Josephs Well, Hanover Walk Leeds LS3 1AB Email: [email protected] Telephone: 0113 246 1555
19
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
6.0 TRAVEL PLAN MEASURES
Introduction 6.1 The following measures have been identified as the most appropriate for the site. It is of particular importance in a TP to identify a variety of TP measures that could be introduced so that residents can pick and choose the most appropriate for their circumstances. It is unlikely that a single measure will address the transport needs of all users, therefore having a range of measures will enable users to choose the most appropriate for their circumstances.
6.2 As indicated previously, this TP is not a static document, it will develop over time and as such the measures outlined below are not exhaustive. As the TP evolves it will incorporate development changes, emerging best practice and information and advice from LCC as and when appropriate.
Measure 1 Site Design The site will be designed to maximise the potential for sustainable travel. Footway and cycleway access on site provide opportunity for journeys on foot and by bike to enabling residents to utilise the existing external cycle and footpath networks.
Sufficient space to park cycles whilst at home has been considered as part of the site design.
Measure 2 Sustainable Travel Guide A bespoke travel guide and maps will be prepared for the site, including details of the bus services and the bus stops closest to the site, walking and cycling routes, cycle facilities, details of the Lancashire Shared Wheels car share scheme, information on electric vehicle charging and personalised journey planning as a minimum. Contact details of the TPC will be made widely available so that any initial queries can be readily directed to the appropriate support.
A lack of information or understanding can act as a barrier for people choosing a mode of travel. Ensuring that information is up to date, accessible and easy to understand can help address this issue.
20
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
Measure 3 Set Up Travel Plan Steering Group Given the scale and nature of the development, the TPC would set up a TP steering group for residents on site to discuss any on site travel issues. The TPC would be responsible for setting up and facilitating the sessions, inviting relevant bodies as and when appropriate. Initially it is suggested that the Travel Plan steering group could meet on a quarterly basis, for the first year, the frequency of the meetings would be reviewed thereafter.
Measure 4 Personal Journey Planning All residents will be offered personalised journey planning with the TPC to provide them with information and advice on their travel options. This would give residents the opportunity to consider appropriate route options and different modes of travel. All residents will be offered this opportunity during the purchasing period so that travel patterns can be influenced before they become habitual.
The TPC will support residents in identifying suitable modes of travel, for example, someone who is keen to continue driving a car on site, could consider Lancashire shared wheels, the TPC would provide support and information on a one to one basis.
Measure 5 Travel Discounts The TPC will liase with local cycling and outdoor stores seeking to negotiate a discount for residents at the development who are keen to purchase bicycles, walking wear and accessories. Any discounts available would be promoted to residents.
Measure 6 Trial Public Transport Ticket Public Transport taster tickets will be arranged with local bus service operators and offered to all new residents to promote travel by public transport. By providing these tickets, this enables residents to try local bus travel for free for a week and experience the benefits first hand. Taster tickets will be made available to each property upon first occupation. Tickets will be organised and distributed by the TPC.
21
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
Measure 7 Shared Wheels The TPC would encourage and support residents to take advantage of Lancashire shared wheels car sharing scheme. The free carsharing service is for people living in and around Lancashire. By registering, users can quickly communicate with other potential sharers regarding sharing lifts. The scheme provides information on the benefits of car sharing, such as saving money, reducing congestion and removing the stress of driving. Further details of the scheme can be found using the following link: https://liftshare.com/uk/community/sharedwheels
Measure 8 Promote Online Retail Opportunities Broadband wireless internet provision is now widely available through a standard telephone line and therefore this allows residents to take advantage of a wide range of home shopping opportunities.
In order to reduce the need to travel, the TPC will promote the advantages that the internet can provide in terms of reducing the number of trips to and from the development particularly during peak periods on the local highway network.
Measure 9 D Lock provision To encourage cycling as a mode of travel for residents, gold standard D Locks will be provided to new residents. Thus giving residents a safe bicycle parking option when using their bike when away from the site, to take full advantage of the local cycle network.
Measure 10 Promote Local Cycling Opportunities The TPC will provide information to residents about the extensive cycle network in Lancaster and across Lancashire itself. This information will be provided to residents to raise awareness of the opportunities for cycling as a mode of travel and leisure activity in the area. Both Lancashire County Council and Lancaster City Council provide extensive maps showing on and off-road cycle routes. The TPC will signpost residents to these resources
22
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
Measure 11 The developer would ensure that an EVCP was available as an option for homebuyers With electric vehicles growing in popularity year on year the developer would offer residents the option of installing an electric vehicle charge point (EVCP) in their property.
There are grants available to assist with the initial purchase cost of EVCPs and installing an EVCP during construction is far easier and more cost effective than installing one following completion. Residents would be able to choose to add an EVCP to their property specification during the purchase period.
Measure 12 Development Wide Newsletters The TPC will prepare newsletters for all residents on a quarterly basis that will provide updates on travel in the area and promote national and local walking and cycling events and offers and highlight upcoming travel surveys.
6.3 The measures outlined above are the initial package of measures which have been identified for the development, the TPC will work closely with officers at LCC to ensure that the measures remain appropriate going forward.
23
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
7.0 ACTION PLAN
7.1 An Action Plan has been produced to aid the Travel Plan Co-ordinator with the implementation, monitoring and review of this Travel Plan. This outlines the commitments contained within this Travel Plan and sets timescales for undertaking each task. It provides a useful checklist to ensure that the Travel Plan is being fully implemented. This action plan will be reviewed annually by the TPC in conjunction with LCC and take into account the results from the annual travel surveys. An initial action plan is set out in Table 7.1 overleaf.
24
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Residential Development Land West of Scotforth Road, Lancaster Residential Travel Plan
Table 7.1 Initial Illustrative Action Plan Action Date Responsibility Progress to Date
BGH appointed as Appoint TPC Interim TPC Developer interim TPC BGH appointed as Site Design During construction Developer interim TPC
Sustainable Travel Guide Prior to Marketing TPC -
Travel Plan Steering Group Within 3 months of 50% occupancy TPC -
Personal Journey Planning Available from 1st occupancy TPC -
Travel Discounts Available from 1st occupancy TPC -
Trial Public Transport Ticket TPC to organise TPC -
Shared Wheels Available from 1st occupancy TPC -
Promote Online Retail Available from 1st occupancy TPC - Opportunities
D Lock Provision Available from 1st occupancy TPC -
Promote Local Cycling During construction TPC - Opportunities
Ensure EVCP as an option During construction TPC -
Development Wide Available from 1st occupancy TPC - Newsletters
Prepare Travel Survey Within 3 months of first occupation TPC -
Undertake Travel Survey With 50% occupation TPC -
Within 3 weeks of completion of Prepare Monitoring Report TPC - surveys Annually following completion of Undertake Travel Plan Review TPC - surveys
25
Report Reference No 18-262-002.02
Registered Office London Office
Suite E15 Joseph’s Well Lighterman House Registered in England & Hanover Walk 26-36 Wharfdale Road Wales Co No: 4104802 Leeds LS3 1AB London N1 9RY
VAT No: 399 4601 07 Telephone: 0113 246 1555 Telephone: 0203 553 2336
Email: Website: [email protected] www.bryanghall.co.uk