Commercial in Confidence
Mosley Academy Travel Plan December 2015
Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Contents
Contents
1. Introduction and Background 1 1.1 Project Description 1 1.2 Purpose of the Travel Plan 1 1.3 Background Information 2 1.4 Report Structure 2 2. Site Description and Existing Conditions 3 2.1 Introduction 3 2.2 Site Location 3 2.3 Existing Site Land Uses 4 2.4 Site Access 5 2.5 Parking 7 2.6 Servicing and Deliveries 8 2.7 Local Highway Network 8 3. Proposed Development 9 3.1 Introduction 9 3.2 Scale of Development 9 3.3 Access Arrangements 9 3.4 Parking 11 4. Accessibility by Sustainable Modes 13 4.1 Introduction 13 4.2 Walking 13 4.3 Cycling 15 4.4 Public Transport 15 4.5 Conclusion 19 5. Mosley Academy Survey Results 20 5.1 Pupil Hands-up Survey 20 5.2 Staff Travel to Work Survey 21 5.3 Employee Postcode Distribution 23 5.4 Parent and Guardian Survey 24 5.5 Parent/Guardian/Pupil Postcode Distribution 25
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6. Travel Plan Objectives 27 6.1 Policy Review 27 6.2 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) 27 6.3 Local Policy 29 7. Proposed Measures and Implementation 34 7.1 Aim 34 7.2 Key Measures 34 8. Targets, Monitoring and Review 39 8.1 Travel Plan Co-ordinator 39 8.2 Travel Plan Survey 39 8.3 Targets 40 8.4 Marketing and Promotions 40 8.5 Monitoring 41 9. Conclusion 42
Figures
Figure 2.1 - Location of Mosley Academy in Anslow 4 Figure 2.2 - Cycle Map for Anslow 6 Figure 2.3 - The Bell Inn Car Park Signage 7 Figure 3.1 - Main Vehicular Access 10 Figure 3.2 - Emergency Access 10 Figure 4.1 - Walking Distances 14 Figure 4.2 - Bus Stop Locations within a 400m walk 16 Figure 4.3 - Needwood Forest Connect Map 18 Figure 5.1 - Pupils Hands up Survey 21 Figure 5.2 - Staff Travel To/From Work 22 Figure 5.3 - Employee Postcode Distribution 23 Figure 5.4 - Parent/Guardian Usual Travel To/From School 24 Figure 5.5- Parent/Guardian/Pupil Postcode Distribution 26
Tables
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Table 3.1 - Existing and Proposed Pupil Numbers 9 Table 4.1 - Bus Services in Anslow 17 Table 5.1 - Pupil Hands up Survey Results 20 Table 7.1 - Travel Plan Measures 35 Table 8.1 - Travel Habits of Parent/Guardian/Staff to and from Mosley Academy 39
Appendices
Appendix A
Appendix B
iii Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Introduction and Background
1. Introduction and Background
1.1 Project Description
Capita Local Government Highways and Property has been appointed by Entrust to prepare a Travel Plan (TP) to support a planning application for a proposed extension to the existing Mosley Academy Primary School at Anslow, close to Burton-upon-Trent, Staffordshire.
It is proposed that the extended primary school will open in September 2016, and will increase the schools capacity from 130 to 210 pupils.
1.2 Purpose of the Travel Plan
This report provides a Travel Plan presenting the findings of site audits which consider facilities for walking, cycling and public transport use and findings from the travel surveys conducted in December 2015. The report will then propose measures to encourage sustainable travel. A Travel Plan can bring a number of benefits, which include the following:
- reduce car usage and congestion in the area of the school and improving safety on the journey to school;
- pupils, staff and visitors can enjoy improved health, less stress, a better quality of life, cost and time savings and a greater travel choice;
- the development would see a reduced demand for car parking, with less congestion and better access for staff, pupils/parents and visitors;
- the local community will also benefit from shorter journey times, strengthened home to school links and awareness of road safety will increase in the community; and
- the environment will benefit from improved air quality, less noise and dirt and a reduced impact of wider environmental problems such as global warming.
1 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Introduction and Background
1.3 Background Information
Local and national policy states that a core duty of a local authority is to ensure that there are sufficient places within state schools. The authority not only needs to accommodate all the individuals they are required to educate, but also ensure the number of people to places is well matched in order to maximise efficiency. Staffordshire County Council is concerned by the increasing pressure on the provision of school places, as the number of births and under -5s has risen locally.
In the next 15 years, there will be an additional 3,600 primary school places and 3,600 secondary school places required across Burton-upon-Trent and the surrounding region. To date, the county council has invested around £30million in new primary schools. 1.4 Report Structure
The remainder of the report comprises of the following sections:
Chapter 2 – Site Description and Existing Conditions
Chapter 3 – Proposed Development
Chapter 4 – Accessibility by Sustainable Modes
Chapter 5 – Mosley Academy Survey Results
Chapter 6 – Travel Plan Objectives
Chapter 7 – Proposed Measures and Implementation
Chapter 8 – Targets, Monitoring and Review
Chapter 9 – Conclusion
2 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Site Description and Existing Conditions
2. Site Description and Existing Conditions
2.1 Introduction
This section of the Travel Plan describes the location of the site and provides a summary of the local highway network and transport facilities within close proximity to the proposed development.
2.2 Site Location
Mosley Academy is located in the centre of the village of Anslow. The school is located on Main Street and is largely surrounded by residential properties as shown in Figure 2.1 overleaf.
3 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Site Description and Existing Conditions
Figure 2.1 - Location of Mosley Academy in Anslow
2.3 Existing Site Land Uses
The Mosley Academy is currently a 0.5 form entry school educating children from reception to year 6. The Academy serves mainly the Anslow village and the nearby surrounding areas. Currently the school is operating above capacity with 130 pupils enrolled, supported by 5 full time and 9 part time staff.
General school opening times are from 08:50 to 15:30 hours Monday to Friday. Currently there is no breakfast club / before school activity club in the Academy. However, after school activities take place between 15:30 and 16:30 hours, Monday to Thursday.
4 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Site Description and Existing Conditions
The site comprises of one school building which is split into five classrooms, reception, staff room and a kitchen. The site encompasses a small staff car park to the west and a playground to the east of the site. A site visit was carried out on the morning of Tuesday, 3rd November 2015.
2.4 Site Access
The school site is accessed separately by vehicles and pedestrians from Main Street.
2.4.1 Vehicle Access
Vehicle access is located immediate west of the school building with a small car park. Both the staff and delivery vehicles share the same access. The site has another vehicle access which is located to the east of the site; however this access is for emergency vehicles only.
2.4.2 Pedestrian Access
Pedestrian access is located close to the bus stop at the east of the site adjacent to the emergency vehicle access. A school crossing patrol is available between 08:15 and 09:00 hours in the morning and between 15:15 and 16:45 hours in the evening. Children travelling to school on a bicycle or scooter use the same school access as pedestrians. However, cycling and scooting is not permitted in the school grounds so pupils are required to dismount on entry. The footways are approximately 1.5 metres wide on both side of Main Street in the immediate vicinity of the schools pedestrian access point.
2.4.3 Cycle Access
Main Street is characterised as an advisory cycle route by Staffordshire County Council (SCC) cycling maps as shown in Figure 2.2 overleaf. The cycle routes allow for access from surrounding areas such as Tatenhill, Tutbury Rollerston-on-Dove and Burton-Upon-Trent. Furthermore, Anslow has bridleways and byways surrounding the village which could potentially be used as cycle routes to the school.
5 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Site Description and Existing Conditions
The highways from the East and the West are narrow with no cycle lanes, although they would allow for a car to overtake a bicycle comfortably.
Figure 2.2 - Cycle Map for Anslow
KEY
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2.5 Parking
2.5.1 On-site Vehicle Parking
A small car park is provided on site with unmarked car parking spaces, which can accommodate 12 cars and is typically occupied by staff parking. A private car park owned by The Bell Inn public house is available immediately opposite the school site. There is no formal agreement between the school and pub management. However, The Bell Inn permits Mosley Academy parents to use their car park during the school operational hours and have erected signs to support this as can be seen in Figure 2.3 below.
Figure 2.3 - The Bell Inn Car Park Signage
2.5.2 Cycle Parking
Currently there is no dedicated cycle parking within the site. However, we have been informed that a small number of pupils do cycle to school during summer time and park their bikes under the tree immediate north of the pedestrian access.
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2.5.3 Pick-up / Drop-off Activity
On site observations made during the site visit on Tuesday 3 rd November 2015 indicate that pick-up / drop-off activity predominantly takes place on the car park of The Bell Inn public house, Bushton Lane and on Main Street north of Bushton Lane and south of Village Hall.
It was observed that the drop-off activity before school hours occurred over a period of approximately 30 minutes. Before 08:30, it was observed that there were almost no parked vehicles in the vicinity of the school. Vehicles were observed to start arriving at the school site around 08:30 to drop-off and by about 09:00 the majority of the vehicles were observed to have left the area surrounding the school with very limited residual parking.
2.6 Servicing and Deliveries
Currently there is no dedicated parking or service area for delivery vehicles however it is understood that the majority of deliveries occur outside of school operating hours and take place within the school car parking area without difficulty. It is not anticipated that there will be an increase in the number or type of vehicle movements required for servicing the school following completion of the development proposals.
2.7 Local Highway Network
Due to the rural location there are limited highways in the area. Main Street runs through the centre of the village and is the only route in and out. Burton-upon-Trent lies to the East and Hanbury to the West. The main highways surrounding the area are the A38 towards Burton- Upon-Trent, A50 towards Uttoxeter and local routes towards Burton-Upon-Trent including the A5121, A515, A444 and A511. Main Street is a single carriageway road with a 40mph outside of the village vicinity. 350 yards West from the village the national speed limit is enforced and the highway becomes a single carriageway with no road markings, although two cars could pass comfortably. The highway has a number of signs for the number of bends that occur in the route. Visibility can be poor because of the bends in the road and especially with vegetation overgrowing.
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3. Proposed Development
3.1 Introduction
It is understood that the proposed expansion of Mosley Academy is required due to an increase in the population from high birth rates and the migration of people into the area. A report by Cambridge Education also states that Burton-Upon-Trent needs a rise in the number of school places to mitigate the possible impacts from new housing developments.
3.2 Scale of Development
Currently the site has 130 pupils, 5 full time and 9 part time staff. Due to the Academy expanding to a one form entry school the pupil numbers will increase to 210. The number of classrooms will rise from five to seven to accommodate this increase. The number of staff will also rise to 8 full time and 12 part time staff as shown in Table 3.1 below.
Table 3.1 - Existing and Proposed Pupil Numbers
Existing Potential Full Time Part Time Full Time Part Time Pupils 130 - 210 - Staff 5 9 8 12
3.3 Access Arrangements
3.3.1 Vehicle Access Vehicular access to the site will remain with the main vehicular access to the school car park being from Main Street to the south of the school and an emergency vehicular access also from Main Street to the east of the school. The main vehicular access and emergency access are shown overleaf in Figure 3.1 and Figure 3.2.
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Figure 3.1 - Main Vehicular Access
Figure 3.2 - Emergency Access
3.3.2 Pedestrian Access
Pedestrian access arrangements will also remain. The pedestrian access is located close to the emergency access point and provides a segregated access point for a pedestrian that’s conveniently located leading directly to the school’s main entrance. The pedestrian access is also shown in Figure 3.2 above.
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3.4 Parking
3.4.1 School Parking Provision The school car park currently has 11 standard parking bays and a single DDA space situated close to the main entrance to the school. The development proposals include a small increase in parking provision to 12 standard bays and 2 DDA bays increasing the total provision on-site from 12 to 14 parking spaces. The level of parking proposed has been agreed with SCC Highways Officers.
It is anticipated that the majority of these spaces will be used by staff with any spare spaces being made available for visitors. Staff usage of the car park is likely to be outside of the peak times associated with pupil pick-up / drop-off activity reducing the potential for any conflict on High Street.
3.4.2 DDA Compliance The Equality Act 2010 gives people with disabilities rights of access in relation to motoring, transport and travel infrastructure. In accordance with this approximately 10% of the visitor car parking spaces provided is dedicated disabled bays, with increased dimensions of 3.6m x 4.8m.
3.4.3 Pick-up / Drop-off Provision Pick-up / Drop-off activity does occur on the local highway in close proximity of the school. However, on-site observations indicate that many parents are using the car park of The Bell Inn public house on the opposite side of Main Street and escorting their children to the pedestrian entrance via the school crossing patrol.
3.4.4 Cycle Parking There are currently no cycle parking facilities provided at Mosley Academy. As primary school children are likely to cycle on footways with a parental escort and the standard of footways within Anslow is varied with some narrow footways and certain areas where there are no footways the school are reluctant to encourage this activity at present.
It is understood that there are currently Section 106 Agreements associated with permissions at Outwoods and Branston housing developments to include provision for off-site highways and traffic management in adjoining areas, including Anslow and that provision has been made for
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the involvement of the Parish Council in the planning and implementation of the work that are agreed.
It is likely that these traffic management measures will improve conditions within the village for pedestrians and cyclists and as such the proposals include for provision of parking for up to 10 bicycles in a convenient and conspicuous location which would be suitable for staff and pupils to park their bicycles. Further areas within the school have also been identified for further provision should the demand be identified through the ongoing delivery of a school travel plan.
12 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Accessibility by Sustainable Modes
4. Accessibility by Sustainable Modes
4.1 Introduction
Sustainable forms of travel such as bus, train, cycling, car sharing and walking can help reduce the trip impact of a development on the local highway infrastructure, in addition to having associated health benefits, helping to reduce emissions and improve quality of life. Investigations into existing forms of transport in relation to the proposed site can provide important insights into the possible travel patterns in the area.
This section therefore considers the accessibility of the proposed development via sustainable modes.
4.2 Walking
Walking is considered to be the most important form of transport, being essential for the start and end points of any vehicular trip, as well as providing an active and sustainable alternative for many short journeys. ‘Guidelines for Providing for Journeys on Foot’ 1suggests that a desirable walking distance for school trips is 500m, although a distance of 1000m is considered acceptable.
It is therefore important that the following key pedestrian access issues are adequately addressed by this statement:
- a requirement of the site being accessible in terms of walking distance;
- an appropriate quality of access to and from key public transport facilities local to the development site;
- a general requirement for an appropriate quality of pedestrian routes local to the development site.
1 IHT, (2000)
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By satisfying these criteria, the proposed development can be shown to provide a reasonable level of accessibility on foot and to satisfy the primary needs in connection with pedestrian access movements generated by the proposals.
To assist in summarising the accessibility of the site by foot, a pedestrian catchment area is illustrated in Figure 4.1 below. The figure presents catchments of 400m, 800m and 1200m from the site. The distances represent approximate walking times of 5, 10, 15 minutes respectively when walking a leisurely 5 kilometres an hour.
Figure 4.1 - Walking Distances
The isochrones show that there are a good proportion of the local residential areas that are currently accessible within a 15minute walk of the site, illustrating that walking is a viable alternative to vehicular trips.
Department for Education (DfE) guidance states that statuary walking distance in England for primary school pupils is 2 miles, measured along the shortest route a child can walk with reasonable safety. The National Travel Survey 2014 states that the proportion of children
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walking to school has fallen since 1995/1997 with the average trip length overall has increased by 21%. However, approximately 46% of 5-11 year olds walk to school.
SCC promotes walking to primary school through various activities and schemes to promote healthy lifestyle, road safety and reducing emissions. Park ‘n’ Stride is aimed at pupils who can’t walk all the way to school. Parents can choose a suitable place to park or the school can identify official parking points. Pupils living within walking distance from school are encouraged to partake in a Walking Bus Scheme. The scheme has been running across Staffordshire since 1999 and has proved popular with over 120 schemes operating. The scheme works by allocating parents to walk to school along a specific route while picking up pupils. Furthermore a walk once a week scheme has been running since 2005 where schools encourage pupils to walk at least once a week.
Pedestrian access to Mosley Academy is limited by narrow footways, some of which are only on one side of the highway. Access from the East could be considered the safest route as both sides of the highway have a footway for pedestrians. Pupils travelling West of the site from Anslow Gate and Anslow Leys will have to access the site via Hanbury Road and Main Road. Hanbury Road is a single carriageway highway with no footways and a national speed limit. Access from the West can be a cause of concern as a footway is present on only one side of the highway; potential pupils from Outwood’s Lane would have to access the site this way.
4.3 Cycling
Some of the cycle routes are on-road and therefore only suitable for use by adult school users; however at primary school age children would be expected to cycle on footways.
4.4 Public Transport
The main aim for East Staffordshire is to become a place where people can easily and safely access everyday facilities and activities through highway and transport networks. The main aim is to allow the economy of the area to grow by providing access to jobs whilst proactively tackling climate change.
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4.4.1 Bus
Guidance set out within the Institution of Highways and Transportation (IHT) document ‘Guidelines for Planning for Public Transport in Development’ states that the acceptable walking distance to a bus stop is 400 meters and 800 meters to a rail station. Figure 4.2 below highlights the bus stops accessible in and around a 400 meter recommended walking distance from the site.
Figure 4.2 - Bus Stop Locations within a 400m walk
The Borough of East Staffordshire is served by local bus services in and between settlements; the main interchange for Anslow is Burton-upon-Trent. Mainly within the Burton-upon-Trent area the bus services are based in the urban areas serving the town centre. Anslow has a limited
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bus service with only one service passing through the village every two hours as shown in Table 4.1below. Table 4.1 - Bus Services in Anslow
Service First Service Last Service Route Days Number Southbound Northbound Southbound Northbound Mon – Fri 09:27 09:11 15:42 13:46 Burton to 403 Saturday 11:27 12:46 15:27 16:46 Uttoxeter Sunday - - - -
4.4.2 Needwood Forest Connection
Needwood Forest Connect is a demand responsive transport service offered in conjunction with SCC. The service can be booked by anyone living in the outlying rural areas to the west of Burton-upon-Trent, as shown in Figure 4.3 overleaf. The service can collect from the user’s dwelling rather than a pre-determined stop, and is designed to provide a sustainable option in those areas not served by a commercial service.
The connect bus service runs between 8am-6pm on Monday to Saturdays with booking from 7 days beforehand up to 5 pm the day before, on a first come first serve basis. Current service costs are: Adults - £3.00, Single - £5.00 Return; Children £1.50 single, £2.50 Return; Concessionary Pass - Free and ‘Your Staffordshire’ cards - £1.00 per journey.
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Figure 4.3 - Needwood Forest Connect Map
4.4.3 East Staffordshire Borough Council: Free School Transport
Children of statutory school age (up to and including year 11) are normally entitled to free travel assistance if they reside in Staffordshire. For children to be entitled to the scheme they need to be living within the catchment area of their nearest suitable school, as determined by the local authority, and reside further than walking distance ( 2 miles up to year 6, and 3 miles from year 7).
There are different types of travel assistance that can be offered to pupils, including; • A pass for local public transport; • Payment of travel costs through a mileage allowance or personal travel budget for families to make their own arrangements; and • A place on a school bus or other vehicle hired by the local authority.
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Generally pupils are expected to walk up to one mile to or from a designated pick up/drop off site.
4.4.4 Rail Service
Anslow does not have a rail service, with the nearest connection available in Burton-upon-Trent, managed by East Midlands Trains. The station provides connections to the wider rail network; including Birmingham, Cardiff and Nottingham. The distance from the nearest rail station and the nature of the site suggests that pupils and staff are unlikely to use the train for their journey to school.
4.4.5 Car Sharing
SCC manages a car sharing scheme called ‘Share-a-Lift’. The programme operates in the wider Staffordshire area and allows residents to sign up and view any car sharing opportunities in their area. There are no opportunities currently at Anslow; however this does not necessarily mean car sharing will not occur. Some parents travelling from outside of the walking distance could potentially car share with other pupils. Furthermore, siblings at the school will have an impact on the number of associated trips.
4.5 Conclusion
It has been shown that the local environment and access provided by the school is conducive to a walking environment. There is also potential for those that reside further afield to utilise the free school bus service and further reduce the need for private vehicle trips.
Therefore, despite the limitations placed upon the site by the rural location, it can be concluded that the development has potential in terms of sustainable transport.
19 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Mosley Academy Survey Results
5. Mosley Academy Survey Results
The Mosley Academy Travel Plan is based on the results of a staff travel to work survey and pupil and parent travel to school surveys conducted in December 2015. The data has provided a strong evidence base for this Travel Plan, ensuring targets and actions within the plan are achievable and realistic. The results of the survey are presented below.
5.1 Pupil Hands-up Survey
A pupil hands up survey was carried out in December 2015 for all four classes from Reception to Year 6. A total of 130 pupils were involved in the survey out of a total 130. The results of the survey are shown in Table 5.1 below and Figure 5.1overleaf.
Table 5.1 - Pupil Hands up Survey Results
Car
Share December 2015 Walk Cycle Bus Train Car Other Total with
Friends Travel To School 13 0 1 0 110 5 1 130 Travel From 14 0 1 0 111 4 0 130 School
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Figure 5.1 - Pupils Hands up Survey
Other Travel to/from School 1% Bus Car Share with 1% Walk Friends 10% 3%
Car 85%
As can be seen travelling to and from school by car dominates the modal split with 85% of pupils travelling to school by car. 10% of pupils walk to and from school and 3% share with friends.
5.2 Staff Travel to Work Survey
A staff travel to work survey was carried out which had a total of 8 responses from members of staff. As shown in Figure 5.2 overleaf the main mode of travel for staff to and from work is by car. 88% travel by car alone, whilst 12% ride/travel as a passenger; there were no staff that came to work by any other mode.
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Figure 5.2 - Staff Travel To/From Work
Staff Usual Travel To/From Work
Passenger 12%
Car (alone), 88%
The following summarises the findings from the staff travel to work survey:
• Single occupancy car vehicle dominates modal split for staff with 88% using the private car to get to and from work. • 75% of staff chose the car as the main mode of transport as it is the quickest/most direct means of transport followed by 50% of staff who use the car because car parking is available onsite and that there is no direct public transport from home to the school. • 34% of staff would not consider using any other mode of transport, whilst 63% would consider car sharing. • 63% of staff say nothing would encourage them to walk to/from work; the majority of these say they live too far away and have too much to carry. Although 37% would be encouraged with safer better lit paths and having a walking partner. • 63% of staff owns their own bike; however the majority at 75% said they would never cycle to work. Although a couple of staff (25%), said they would consider cycling if there were improved cycle paths and improved cycle storage.
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• 50% of staff would be encouraged to use public transport if certain improvements were made; for instance, if there were more frequent services and cheaper fares. • The majority of employees (75%) indicated they would consider car sharing if certain incentives were in place, for example, helping find car sharers who live nearby. • Most of the staff did not feel that there were any transport issues at the school. • There were suggestions by staff to trial walking buses.
5.3 Employee Postcode Distribution
By mapping the postcodes, it can be seen that there are a number of staff that live within the vicinity of the school indicating that sustainable travel could be a feasible option for these employees at least once or twice a week. See Figure 5.3 below.
Figure 5.3 - Employee Postcode Distribution
23 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Mosley Academy Survey Results
5.4 Parent and Guardian Survey
A parent/guardian travel survey was carried out in December 2015 with a total of 38 respondents. Figure 5.4 below illustrates usual travel to and from the school.
Figure 5.4 - Parent/Guardian Usual Travel To/From School
Parent/Guardian Usual Travel To/From School
Public Bus, 2% Walk, 14% Car Share, 6%
Car, 81%
Figure 5.4 above illustrates that the private car dominates the modal split with 81% of parents/guardians dropping off their child/children by car.
The following summarises the findings from the survey:
• Of those parents that travel by car, the majority chose this mode as they drop children off on their way to work. • 29% of parents/guardians stated that times are unsuitable to use public transport. • 26% of parents/guardians stated that unsuitable routes were a barrier to them using public transport. • When asked if anything affects the way parents/guardians travel to and from school 53% stated the distance they lived from school and 45% stated work commitments.
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• 32% of respondents said they would take part in an escorted walking scheme with 26% indicating they would take part in walking and organised cycling days. 24% and 21% respectively would like to take part in car sharing and a park and stride scheme. • With cycle storage and training, 42% of respondents would allow their child to cycle with a parent/guardian. 16% would let them cycle as a group or with other guides and only 2% would let their child cycle on their own. The majority at 45% would not allow their child to cycle to /from school. • 63% of respondents said the route to school could be made safer, with suggestions to improve and introduce pavements, better lighting and speed cameras. • 42% of parent/guardians said they would be willing to help out with school walking and cycling days. Of the 59% that said they would not be willing to help out, the majority of these were due to work commitments. • Other comments received about the journey to school were with regards to introducing a park and stride scheme would be welcomed, the idea of a school bus and there are fast roads (60mph) approaching the village that have no pavements making it undesirable to attempt to walk or cycle.
5.5 Parent/Guardian/Pupil Postcode Distribution
By mapping the postcodes, it can be seen that there are a number of pupils that live within the vicinity of the school and within the 2 mile DfE recommended statuary walking distance, however many live within remote locations outside of Anslow Village where they are subject to either limited or no pavements and roads that are the National Speed Limit, restricting the number of children who can walk and/or cycle to school safely. The distribution of postcodes would suggest that car sharing, a school bus and investigating the possibility of a local park and stride facility would be feasible options for these pupils. See Figure 5.5 overleaf.
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Figure 5.5- Parent/Guardian/Pupil Postcode Distribution
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6. Travel Plan Objectives
The main objectives of this Travel Plan are as follows:
- to ensure that all staff, students and visitors to the site are aware of all the travel choices available and are encouraged to use sustainable modes of transport when accessing the site;
- increase the amount of pupils walking to school;
- encourage both staff and students to cycle to school;
- to address specific issues identified within the Transport Statement by influencing the design process and implementing mechanisms that ensures that the choices of sustainable modes are attractive and an easy option;
- to raise awareness to both parents and pupils about road safety;
- contribute to meeting the range of objectives contained within the transport policy as outlined below.
6.1 Policy Review
Legislation and policy play an important role in guiding and shaping new developments. This section of the report reviews relevant national and local policies and provides a brief analysis of how the development will contribute to their aims and objectives.
6.2 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)
The NPPF was released on 27 th March 2012, replacing all previous planning policy guidance immediately and designed to be the primary source of national planning guidance in England.
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Central to the NPPF is a “presumption in favour of sustainable development”, which for planning means that: • Local planning authorities should positively seek opportunities to meet the development needs of their area; • Local Plans should meet objectively assessed needs, with sufficient flexibility to adapt to rapid change, unless: -any adverse impacts of doing so would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the Framework as a whole; or -specific policies in the Framework indicate development should be restricted.
The NPPF states: All developments that generate significant amounts of movement should be supported by a Transport Statement or Transport Assessment Plans and decisions should take into account of whether: • The opportunities for sustainable transport modes have been taken up depending on the nature and location of the site, to reduce the need for major transport infrastructure; • Safe and suitable access to the site can be achieved for all people; and • Improvements can be undertaken within the transport network that could effectively limit the significant impacts of the development. Development should only be prevented or refused on transport grounds where the residual cumulative impacts of development are severe.
It further clarifies that plans 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: • Accommodate the efficient delivery of goods and supplies; • Give priority to pedestrian and cycle movements, and have access to high quality public transport facilities; • Create safe and secure layouts which minimise conflicts between traffic and cyclists or pedestrians, avoiding street clutter and where appropriate establishing home zones.
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6.3 Local Policy
6.3.1 East Staffordshire Borough Local Plan (2012 – 2031)
The East Staffordshire Local Plan was adopted in October 2015 with a plan period of 2012 – 2031, replacing the previous 2006 Local Plan.
The Plan details the local vision for change over the forthcoming period, and establishes the standards required for the delivery of a high quality natural and built environment, including design, layout, landscaping and the consideration of ecological and historic assets.
The twelve strategic objectives detailed in the Plan are:
• SO1: Well Designed Communities; • SO2: Housing Choice; • SO3: Accessibility and Transport Infrastructure; • SO4: Neighbourhood Planning; • SO5: Education Infrastructure; • SO6: Centres; • SO7: Economic Diversification; • SO8: Rural Economy; • SO9: Heritage; • SO10: Flood Risk; • SO11: Prudent Use of Resources; and • SO12: Countryside.
In regards to education and associated infrastructure, the Plan reiterates SCC’s statutory duty to secure sufficient school places for the children of the county. In order to do so the Local Plan identifies that considerable investment is required to accommodate the existing demand for school places, and that further development will only increase this demand. In meeting this demand, the Borough Council state that they will work with SCC to ensure that education infrastructure is provided in sustainable locations accessible for the communities it is intended to serve.
29 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Travel Plan Objectives
The Local Plan also describes the need to encourage and enable a continued move towards more sustainable patterns and modes of travel, in addition to ways of reducing the need to travel. The Plan sets out a number of ways to achieve this, which the proposals will aim to support and incorporate:
• Supporting measures which facilitate the modal shift to public transport, cycling and walking demonstrated in a travel plan; • Promoting and supporting traffic management measures and environmental improvements which increase safety, improve air quality, and make our towns and villages more attractive; • Ensuring development proposals provide appropriate infrastructure measures to mitigate the adverse effects of development traffic and other environmental and safety impacts; • Securing appropriate provision or contribution towards the cost of necessary highway improvements, provision of public transport services and facilities and walking and cycling facilities; and • Requiring developments which are likely to have an impact on the wider highway infrastructure to be accompanied by a transport assessment clearly setting out how the likely impacts of the development will be addressed.
6.3.2 Staffordshire Local Transport Plan (LTP) 2011
The 2011 LTP is Staffordshire’s third Local Transport Plan, and describes the County Council’s proposals for transport provision in the county. It presents a vision for a Staffordshire transport system that supports Staffordshire’s economy, and safely and conveniently connects people and services within Staffordshire and beyond.
In order to achieve the stated vision, the LTP indentifies seven countywide objectives and 17 inter-related challenges. The 3 main objectives are:
• Supporting growth and regeneration; • Maintaining the Highway network; • Making transport easier to use and places easier to get to.
30 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Travel Plan Objectives
Policy 3.1 of the LTP states that the Council will look to support the adoption of sustainable land-use planning policies and reduce the impact of development where it negatively affects the highway network. Methods of achieving this include: • Encouraging the design and layout of new development that maximises access by smarter travel modes, especially in urban areas; • Improve street design to create inclusive environments, especially in town centres whilst reconciling safety issues; • Ensuring that Travel Plans, when required to support new development, include modal shift targets, annual performance monitoring, remedies and enforcement obligations.
Section 4: Improving Safety and Security details road safety and accident statistics for Staffordshire, and targets and measures in order to improve safety and reduce accident rates in the area.
A number of measures already successfully implemented in the county could be applicable to a new school development, including part-time 20mph zones during peak school hours, and the ‘Stepping Out’ campaign, providing basic pedestrian skills through classroom and roadside training.
Additionally, Policy 4.1 details engineering measures that will be considered in order to improve safety conditions, including: Signing and lining/marking; coloured surfaces and anti-skid surfacing; applicable TROs, altered road layouts; traffic calming, and; improved facilities for pedestrians and other road users.
6.3.3 East Staffordshire Borough Council: Free School Transport
Children of statutory school age (up to and including year 11) are normally entitled to free travel assistance if they reside in Staffordshire. For children to be entitled to the scheme they need to be living within the catchment area of their nearest suitable school, as determined by the local authority, and reside further than walking distance ( 2 miles up to year 6, and 3 miles from year 7).
There are different types of travel assistance that can be offered to pupils, including;
31 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Travel Plan Objectives
• A pass for local public transport; • Payment of travel costs through a mileage allowance or personal travel budget for families to make their own arrangements; and • A place on a school bus or other vehicle hired by the local authority.
Generally pupils are expected to walk up to one mile to or from a designated pick up/drop off site.
6.3.4 East Staffordshire Borough Council Cycling Strategy
East Staffordshire Borough Council has developed a cycling strategy which aims to achieve social, economic and environment benefits across the whole of the borough. The scheme provides guidance on increasing participation in cycling, encouraging use of sustainable transport choices and on how infrastructure can be improved within the borough. The main aims of the strategy include:
• Improving cycle routes and infrastructure;
• Improving health and well being;
• Increasing involvement;
• Developing sustainable tourism and economy; and
• Enhancing the environmental quality.
The benefits are split into three areas these being, economic, health and well being and environmental. The National Travel Survey states that 65% of people aged 5+ use a bicycle less than once a year. SCC provides a cycle journey planner route map facility on their website. It shows cycle routes in the area and suggests the best route depending on the experience of the rider, fastest route, and safest route and provides further information about the journey.
6.3.5 SCC Walking Route Assessment Criteria
SCC has determined criteria for the assessment of walking routes, assuming a child is accompanied by a responsible adult. The criteria include the assessment of:
32 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Travel Plan Objectives
• Footways; • Crossing Points; • Alternative routes; • Street lighting; • Junctions and slip roads; • The condition of the footways and road surfaces; and • Assessment of accident data.
6.3.6 East Staffordshire Borough Council: Planning Guidance Parking Standards
The Supplementary Planning Guidance provides direction on the Borough Council’s Parking requirements in relation to new developments.
The Maximum Parking Standards are as follows:
• State School – 1 per 10 pupils; and • 3 bays or 6% DDA compliant.
Minimum Cycle Standards: • State School – 1 per 10 pupils; • State School – 1 per 10 staff.
33 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Proposed Measures and Implementation
7. Proposed Measures and Implementation
7.1 Aim
The aim is to provide a package of measures that are integrated into the design, occupation and marketing of the site. The measures set will aim to achieve more sustainable travel patterns and support the range of alternatives to single occupancy car use.
A number of resources have been allocated for Travel Plan implementation; this includes a Travel Plan Co-ordinator. The Travel Plan will be marketed to parents, pupils and Governors.
The emphasis within the Travel Plan will be to maximise the opportunities that the physical development proposes and the excellent sustainable transport accessibility offer. The Travel Plan will be part of Staffordshire STARS (Sustainable Travel Accreditation and Recognition for Schools). STARS is an easy electronic Travel Planning tool kit that enables schools to create, develop, implement, monitor and maintain their own initiatives in addition to receiving free resources, through the Schools Travel Team.
7.2 Key Measures
This section outlines the key measures to support sustainable travel for specific target audiences and to meet the targets set.
A detailed table of Travel Plan measures to be considered are provided in Table 7.1 overleaf with an implementation timescale delivered by the Mosley Academy Travel Plan Co-ordinator.
34 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Proposed Measures and Implementation
Table 7.1 - Travel Plan Measures
Implementation Travel Choice Measure Responsibility Timescale Provide Site Specific Cycle route maps September 2016 Travel Plan Co-ordinator from key destinations. Provide secure covered on site cycle As and when demand Travel Plan Co-ordinator storage facilities for requires staff and pupils. Investigate cycling proficiency training for years 5 and 6 to September 2016 Travel Plan Co-ordinator encourage cycling for health, leisure and commuting to school. Cycling Provide information on local bike shops, September 2016 Travel Plan Co-ordinator local cycling groups. Contact the Staffordshire County Council, Schools Travel Team to receive advice and September / October Travel Plan Co-ordinator resources for Mosley 2016 Academy to be part of sustainable campaigns and events. Contact Staffordshire County Council to Walking arrange dates September 2016 Travel Plan Co-ordinator throughout the year to conduct Road Safety
35 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Proposed Measures a nd Implementation
Education to Mosley Academy pupils. Contact Staffordshire County Councils School Travel Team to meet and investigate introducing a WOW September / October (Walk once a week) Travel Plan Co-ordinator 2016 and walking bus scheme for those pupils within a recommended walking distance to Mosley Academy. Partake in National Walk to Schools month and National Walk to School week October 2016 and Travel Plan Co-ordinator working in partnership May 2017 respectively with Staffordshire County Councils School Travel Team. Make reference to Walking Staffordshire County Councils calendar of campaigns on the September 2016 Travel Plan Co-ordinator schools Internet and within the schools Welcome pack for all new starters. Identify 10 minute September / October walk zones from the Travel Plan Co-ordinator 2016 school to encourage
36 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Proposed Measures and Implementation
as many families as possible to walk most or part of the way. Even those parents who have to drive to school will be encouraged to park outside the 10 minute walk zone and walk the rest of the way. This piece of work is to be collaboratively delivered through the STARS scheme through SCC. Provide local bus Public Transport stops and bus service September 2016 Travel Plan Co-ordinator information. Actively encourage parents when appropriate to car September 2016 and share with other Car Share regular intervals Travel Plan Co-ordinator parents who live throughout the year within the same area to car share to and/or from school. Create a Travel Plan information booklet for all sustainable Marketing and travel and transport September 2016 Travel Plan Co-ordinator Promotion options. To be given to parents as part of the ‘new starter’ Welcome Pack.
37 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Proposed Measures and Implementation
September 2016 European Mobility Week November 2016 Diarise and plan Road Safety Week activities for National Travel Plan Co-ordinator Sustainable Transport May 2017 Campaigns. Walk to School Week June 2017 National Bike Week
Hold quarterly Travel Marketing and Plan meetings to plan November 2016, Promotions and review events February 2017, April Travel Plan Co-ordinator and Travel Plan 2017 and June 2017 processes. Conduct Travel to School Survey and October 2016 Travel Plan Co-ordinator Travel to Work survey. Feedback results of Travel to School November 2016 Travel Plan Co-ordinator Survey to parents, staff and Governors. Travel Plan June/July 2017 and Travel Plan Co-ordinator Monitoring Review. every year thereafter
38 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Targets, Monitoring and Review
8. Targets, Monitoring and Review
8.1 Travel Plan Co-ordinator
The Travel Plan Co-ordinator who will have the responsibility of setting targets, implementing Travel Plan measures and monitoring performance is The Headteacher.
8.2 Travel Plan Survey
A travel survey of those who currently attend Mosley Academy School was undertaken to establish travel habits of the pupils and staff. The survey was undertaken in December 2015. Surveys were taken in each classroom as hands-up surveys, given out to parents via letters that were sent home and given to staff via staff meetings. The results are summarised in Table 8.1 below.
Table 8.1 - Travel Habits of Parent/Guardian/Staff to and from Mosley Academy
Mode Parent/Guardian Staff Walk 14% 0% Cycle 0% 0% Private Car 81% 88% Car Share 6% 12% School Bus 0% 0% Public Bus 2% 0% Train 0% 0% Other 0% 0% No of Responses 38 8
It is anticipated that future travel surveys will include the proposed development (extension) and will be conducted on an annual basis.
39 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Targets, Monitoring and Review
8.3 Targets
As can be seen from the survey results in Table 8.1above there are a significant number of both staff and pupils who attend the school that travel by private car. This is likely to be the result of the fact that many parents drop the pupils off before driving to work and or nursery before driving to work. Some staff travel from further afield, however, some of those that live fairly close to the school still drive to school due to the perception the surrounding network is deemed unsafe to walk or cycle, with roads that are National Speed Limit and limited/no pavements. The majority of pupils are fairly local living within DE13 area; however as can be seen in Figure 5.5 there are many pupils who travel from rural settings making walking and cycling to school quite difficult.
As a result an obvious target would be to encourage more current and future pupils to car share and or to look at a Park and Stride facility that is agreed and official in its use. As such the following targets have been set for the three year period September 2016 to September 2019;
• Reduce private car use by parents/guardians from 81% to75% • Increase the number of pupils car sharing from 6% to 8% • Increase the number of pupils walking to school from 14% to 17% • Increase car sharing from staff from 12% to 13%
Considering the catchment area of those attending the school is expected to remain similar. It is considered that the targets are optimistic yet achievable through the action plan measures, including ongoing marketing and communications.
As highlighted in the travel survey, there are some obvious issues in regards to park and stride facilities, walking buses, car sharing opportunities and a school bus service. In order to assist with the delivery the Travel Planning Co-ordinator will investigate these potentials as part of the Travel Plan delivery.
8.4 Marketing and Promotions
Marketing and promotions is vital to ensure adequate take up of these services and to communicate to pupils, parents and staff and Governors.
40 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Targets, Monitoring and Review
It is important that a marketing strategy is implemented to ensure that travel and transport information, key services and sustainable modes of transport are promoted. A Travel Plan Co-ordinator will be responsible for the effective marketing and awareness campaign for pupils, parents, staff, Governors and visitors to the site.
8.5 Monitoring
Monitoring travel behaviour is a key element to understanding the success of the Travel Plan measures. It is envisaged that the nominated Travel Plan Co-ordinator will conduct a staff travel to work survey and a parent/Guardian travel to school survey on an annual basis to provide ongoing information on the impact of the plan and to provide an understanding of the level of change in modal shift. The survey results will also be a catalyst to revise the action plan as seen appropriate.
41 Mosley Academy Commercial in Confidence November 2015 Conclusion
9. Conclusion
The implementation of the Travel Plan ensures that the development will encourage and support the use of sustainable transport modes in accessing the site.
This Travel Plan should be recognised as an evolutionary document, which will need to be reviewed and refreshed over time.
42 Commercial in Confidence
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