Ridgeway Farm, North West Swindon Residential

Transcription

Ridgeway Farm, North West Swindon
Residential Travel Plan
Taylor Wimpey
October 2010
QM
Issue/revision
Issue 1
Revision 1
Revision 2
Revision 3
Remarks
Draft
Second Draft
Third Draft
FINAL
Date
20 April 2010
07 May 2010
20 August 2010
29 October 2010
Prepared by
T Mabelson
E Hummerstone
E Hummerstone
A Winmill
E Hummerstone
J Williams
J Williams
J Williams
J Williams
A Blacker
A Blacker
A Blacker
Project number
11210268-PT3
11210268-PT3
11210268-PT3
11210268-PT3
File reference
N\Ridgeway Farm, Swindon\TEXT\REPORTS\Travel Plan~11
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WSP Development and Transportation
Mountbatten House
Basing View
Basingstoke
Hampshire
RG21 4HJ
Tel: +44 (0)1256 318800
Fax: +44 (0)1256 318700
http://www.wspgroup.com
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Contents
1
Background
1
2
Policy and Guidance
3
3
Vision and Objectives
11
4
Site Characteristics and Existing Opportunities
12
5
Travel Plan Measures
19
6
Management and Implementation of the Travel Plan
25
7
Targets and Monitoring
28
8
Ongoing Management
32
9
Summary
33
Figures
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
1
2
3
4
5
6
Site Location Plan
Benefits of Travel Plans
Local Cycle and Pedestrian Network
Walking Isochrones
Cycling Isochrones
Public Transport Network
Appendices
Appendix A
Appendix B
Master Plan
Resident's Travel Survey
1
Background
1.1
CONTEXT
1.1.1
WSP Development and Transportation has been appointed by Taylor Wimpey
to prepare a ‘residential Travel Plan’ in support of a planning application for residential
development of up to 800 dwellings to the North West of Swindon. A location map of the
proposed development site is shown on Figure 1.
1.1.2
The site is located on the north-western edge of the existing built area of
Swindon. Ridgeway Farm is located immediately north and east of the B4553 and
southwest of the Swindon – Gloucester railway line. The site is situated within the
administrative area of Wiltshire Council (WCC), although the administrative boundary of
Swindon Borough Council (SBC) effectively forms the southern boundary of the site.
1.2
DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS
1.2.1
The development proposals for the site consist of the construction of up to 800
residential dwellings. The development will comprise a mixture of flats and houses, of
varying sizes and tenures. In addition to residential dwellings the development will
provide a single form entry primary school.
1.3
THE BENEFITS OF RESIDENTIAL TRAVEL PLANS
1.3.1
A residential Travel Plan can provide a number of key benefits to its residents
and visitors, as well as to the wider local community. Some of the benefits that can be
achieved will be key motorists of this Travel Plan and are set out below:
Improved quality of life for residents - through adopting healthier lifestyles e.g.
replacing shorter car journeys with walking and cycling, and avoiding the stresses of
trying to find parking spaces at their end destinations;
Improved local air quality - through reduced traffic congestion in the local
community, as a result of the use of alternative modes to the private car for many
local journeys;
Less vehicle congestion on local roads - as a result of fewer cars attempting to
depart and access the development;
Cost savings for car sharers - by sharing journeys with neighbours or friends,
residents can benefit from sharing the financial and time cost associated with making
these journeys;
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1.3.2
Through identifying an appropriate package of measures it is possible that all of
these benefits can be achieved as part of the residential development proposed for the
site. A summary of these benefits is shown in Figure 2:
Figure 2 – Benefits of Residential Travel Plans
The Environment and Local
Community
Better air quality, reduced congestion,
improved accessibility and safer roads
Residents
Local Authority
Reduced congestion
on local roads
More sustainable
residential
The EnvironmentVisitors
and Local Community
development
Improved
air
quality,
reduced
congestion,
Better
information
on
Increased public
infrastructure
alternatives
modes
transport patronage better use of existing
for planning journeys
to the site
Improved access to
the site for deliveries
Residents
A less cardominated
development
Cost savings for car
sharers
Improved health and
motivation
Developers
Better access to
essential services
and jobs
Improved travel options
Opportunities for a
healthier lifestyle
More vibrant local
communities to live in
High density
developments
Reduced traffic
generation from a
development
Less need for
investment in
additional transport
infrastructure
1.4
TRAVEL PLAN STRUCTURE
1.4.1
The remainder of this document is set out in the following chapters:
Policy Context
Site Characteristics and Opportunities
Management and Implementation Plan
Ongoing Management
Summary
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2
Policy and Guidance
2.1
INTRODUCTION
2.1.1
The sustainability of new developments is increasingly gaining importance in
the decision making process with regards of where to locate new development sites.
Travel Plans are important tools for achieving sustainable developments and when
implemented as part of a comprehensive transport strategy, it is possible to achieve
significant levels of modal shift away from the private car to more sustainable forms of
travel. This is recognised nationally and several documents have been published to
guide developers and government bodies alike in the preparation and implementation of
Travel Plans.
2.1.2
The following section provides a review of the relevant transport and planning
policy guidance, as applicable to the proposed development in northwest Swindon.
2.2
NATIONAL POLICY
THE FUTURE OF TRANSPORT – A NETWORK FOR 2030 (DFT WHITE
PAPER, 2004)
2.2.1
This publication outlines the current overarching national transport policy since
the implementation of the Government’s 10-Year Plan for Transport in 2000. The White
Paper signals a commitment to sustained investment, improvements in transport
management and planning ahead on widening travel choices and creating sustainable
communities.
2.2.2
The document places particular emphasis on the importance of promoting
better ways of travelling through initiatives such as Travel Plans and marketing to
encourage people to choose alternatives to their cars for some journeys.
2.2.3
Travel Plans are noted as being a key means for promoting travel choices to a
wide audience and encouraging a change in travel behaviour towards greater use of
sustainable modes of travel.
DELIVERING A SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT SYSTEM (DFT, 2008)
2.2.4
‘Delivering a Sustainable Transport System’ (DaSTS) outlines current
Government goals that will form the basis of future transport and infrastructure policy.
These goals are;
To support national economic competitiveness and growth, by delivering reliable and
efficient transport networks;
To reduce transport’s emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, with
the desired outcome of tackling climate change;
To contribute to better safety, security and health and longer life-expectancy by
reducing the risk of death, injury or illness arising from transport and by promoting
travel modes that are beneficial to health;
To promote greater equality of opportunity for all citizens, with the desired outcome of
achieving a fairer society;
To improve quality of life for transport users and non-transport users, and to promote
a healthy natural environment.
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2.2.5
The introduction of a Travel Plan for Ridgeway Farm will directly support these
policy goals, most notably reducing transport emissions from vehicles associated with
the development and improving safety, quality of life, and equality of opportunity for
residents and staff.
PLANNING POLICY GUIDANCE 13 – TRANSPORT (DFT, MARCH 2001)
2.2.6
Planning Policy Guidance Note 13: Transport (PPG13), published in March
2001, provides advice on transport for new developments. The objectives of PPG13 are
to integrate planning and transport at the national, regional, strategic and local level to:
Promote more sustainable transport choices for both people and for moving freight;
Promote accessibility to jobs, shopping, leisure by public transport, walking and
cycling;
Reduce the need to travel, especially by car.
2.2.7
PPG13 emphasises the key themes of sustainable development that have
emerged in recent years. It advises that planning applications for major developments
should be accompanied by a Transport Assessment, which includes details of access by
walking, cycling and public transport.
2.2.8
With regard to residential development, PPG13 sets out that the focus for
residential development should be in existing towns and cities to promote more
sustainable patterns of development and to make better use of previously developed
land.
PLANNING POLICY STATEMENT 1: DELIVERING SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT (ODPM, 2005)
2.2.9
Planning Policy Statement 1 (PPS1) sets out the Government's overarching
planning policies on the delivery of sustainable development through the planning
system. This replaces Planning Policy Guidance Note 1: General Policies and Principles
(PPG1) published in February 1997.
2.2.10 As well as placing emphasis on the achievement of sustainable development,
PPS1 directly supports the use of Travel Plans as a means of achieving environmental
and social objectives. Some of the principles embodied in this document include the
following:
Ensure integrated development;
Encourage development which reduces the need to travel by car; and
Adopt a spatial planning approach.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IN THE CREATION OF SUSTAINABLE
COMMUNITIES MAKING SMARTER CHOICES WORK – DEPARTMENT
FOR TRANSPORT (2005)
2.2.11 Published subsequent to the Transport White Paper, the Department for
Transport (DfT) report ‘Making Smarter Choices Work’ signals continued government
support for a range of measures aimed at raising awareness of alternative modes of
travel to private car use, and actively encouraging the use of a wider range of travel
modes amongst individuals.
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2.2.12 These measures include Travel Plans, travel awareness campaigns, car
sharing initiatives, and individualised travel marketing. Contemporary transport policy
now recognises the impact that such measures can have in encouraging a shift in modal
choice, particularly when accompanied by demand management restraints on singleoccupancy car use.
MAKING RESIDENTIAL TRAVEL PLANS WORK: GOOD PRACTICE
GUIDELINES (DFT, SEPTEMBER 2005)
2.2.13 The government issued the above guidance in an effort to ensure Residential
Travel Plans become more common place within the planning process. The publication
defines a Residential Travel Plan as:
‘A package of measures designed to reduce the number and length of car trips
generated by a residential development, while also supporting more sustainable forms
of travel and reducing the overall need to travel’
2.2.14 Travel Plans are an increasingly important tool in the delivery of sustainable
development, currently a key Government objective, and the DfT acknowledges that the
implementation of Residential Travel Plans will be critical to its delivery.
2.3
REGIONAL POLICY
DRAFT REGIONAL TRANSPORT STRATEGY
2.3.1
The Draft Regional Transport Strategy (DRTS) develops and updates the
current Regional Transport Strategy in RPG 10, adopted in 2001, by accentuating the
importance of quality transport networks for passengers and freight to maintain the
quality of life and competitiveness of the South West; recognising the dangers of rapidly
growing traffic, of congestion in towns and cities.
2.3.2
The DRTS sets out five key policies for the region:
To improve punctuality and reliability of rail services;
To increase the use of public transport;
To increase access to public transport;
Reduce the number of accidents and improve safety; and
Improve air quality, tackle climate change and reduce air pollution.
2.4
LOCAL POLICY
2.4.1
A new Unitary Authority (Wiltshire Council) was formed on the 1 April 2009 to
replace the existing district council's of Kennet, North Wiltshire, Salisbury and West
Wiltshire, along with the current Wiltshire Council.
2.4.2
Existing adopted planning policy documents will continue to be applied within
each of the former district council areas for the purpose of considering planning
applications, and will remain in place until replaced by policies in new Development Plan
Documents.
WILTSHIRE AND SWINDON STRUCTURE PLAN 2016
2.4.3
The Structure Plan provides a strategic policy framework for land use planning,
development and transport across the administrative areas of Wiltshire (incorporating
Wiltshire County and Swindon Borough) up to 2016.
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2.4.4
This framework is used to inform the more detailed Local Development
Frameworks produced by the Borough and District Councils against which decisions on
development are made.
2.4.5
The Wiltshire and Swindon Structure Plan was formally adopted by the
Borough and County Council in April 2006. One of the stated objectives of the Structure
Plan is to integrate land use and transport to reduce the reliance on private motorised
transport, particularly on roads, by supporting:
A better balance between housing and employment;
Greater provision of public transport and rail freight services and increase scope for
walking;
The provision of cycleways in new and existing developments; and
Parking policies which reflect the need to reduce car use as well as the need for
access to facilities and to maintain the vitality and viability of service centres.
2.4.6
In terms of the Plan Area Strategy two of the key elements identified in the
Structure Plan are identified as:
Continued concentration of development in the main towns including Swindon; and
Reduce the need to travel, with increased emphasis on public transport, cycling and
walking.
2.4.7
Policy DP10B specifically states that provision will be made for 1,000 dwellings
at the western side of Swindon in Local Development Documents. Policies in these
documents should ensure the provision of public transport links from the first phase of
any new development.
2.4.8
With regard to Transportation, Policy T2 sets out the Swindon Principal Urban
Area Transportation Package. It states that this package “will provide opportunities to
reduce the reliance on the private car by increasing the choices available to meet
transport needs”. Additionally, the package will consider the implementation of:
Dedicated bus corridors and facilities;
Park and Ride Schemes;
Demand Management Measures;
New Road Proposals – Croft Road to Hay Lane Link and Northern Orbital Road
(Purton Road to Great Western Way); and
Improvements that enhance the integration of the road, rail and bus networks.
2.4.9
The funding mechanism for the above will be identified in LTPs, but with
“significant opportunities for funding available from contributions secured from new
development”.
NORTH WILTSHIRE LOCAL PLAN 2011
th
2.4.10 The North Wiltshire Local Plan was adopted on 27 June 2006 and was
subsequently inherited by Wiltshire Council. The Secretary of State reviewed the Local
th
Plan and issued approval on a number of saved policies for beyond 27 June 2009. All
transport policies with the exception of T6 – Freight were retained.
2.4.11
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The transport objectives of the Local Plan are to:
6
Promote more sustainable transport choices for both people and moving freight.
Promote accessibility to jobs, shopping, leisure facilities and services by public
transport, walking and cycling.
Reduce the need to travel especially by the car.
2.4.12 Policy T1 focuses on minimising the need to travel and be accessible to
walking, cycling and public transport. Housing developments should be accessible to
employment, education, health, retail, leisure and local services. The policy states that
proposals will be permitted provided they meet sustainable transport requirements.
2.4.13 Policy T2 states that Travel Plans are required to support sustainable forms of
transport to and from a development. The Policy states that:
‘Travel Plans should promote cycling, walking, public transport and car sharing … and …
reduce traffic speeds, improve road safety and personal security, and include more
environmentally friendly delivery and transport movements.’
WILTSHIRE LOCAL TRANSPORT PLAN 2006-2011
2.4.14 Central to Wiltshire’s second LTP are the agreed Government/Local
Government Association transport ‘shared priorities’. The shared priorities are:
Tackling congestion;
Delivering Accessibility;
Safer Roads; and
Better Air Quality.
2.4.15 The primary LTP2 objectives are based on the document A Strategy for
Wiltshire. Key transport objectives are to:
Encourage and support sustainable travel modes to reduce reliance on the private
car and improve travel choices;
Limit traffic growth on county roads to 7% between 2006 and 2010;
Increase bus patronage to 9.63 million journeys by 2011 (from a 2005 base of 9.29
million); and
Improve facilities for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in urban areas, by
completing the deliverable elements of the town centre cycle networks by 2011, and
by halting the deterioration of footways by 2009.
2.4.16 With regard to public transport, the LTP states that the Council will seek to
ensure that new developments are well served by bus through planning guidance and by
securing developer contributions through Section 106 Agreements.
WILTSHIRE COUNCIL RESIDENTIAL TRAVEL PLAN GUIDANCE
2.4.17 Wiltshire Council provides guidance for residential Travel Plans (RTP) to
encourage sustainable travel. It is considered that a clear Travel Plan can be easily
achieved and provide rewards for all involved. Techniques of persuasion, publicity,
advice and promotion should be deployed by the developer to ensure new residents take
advantage of sustainable transport measures.
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2.4.18 For short journeys the focus is walking, cycling and bus trips. While for longer
journeys car sharing and car clubs are more effective. Measures should be gradually
introduced from first occupation until fully occupied. The following measures are
suggested as part of a successful RTP:
A Travel Pan Co-coordinator (TPC) should be nominated by the developer with
responsibility for developing, implementing and monitoring the RTP.
Provision of accurate information including timetables and maps that are included in
welcome packs and updated regularly.
Links to existing walking and cycling routes should be clearly signed.
Car clubs and car sharing schemes for larger developments over 75 dwellings.
Public transport infrastructure to encourage use, such as bus shelters.
Ongoing publicity and promotion from a pre-marketing stage, to welcome packs on
occupation and continued half yearly newsletters. Personalised Travel Planning
should also be offered for large developments.
2.4.19 A RTP should produce targets that are actively monitored. Surveys should be
carried out once 30%, 60% and 100% of units are occupied. They should also be carried
out after 1 year, 3 years after full occupation and / or the pre-adoption or highways as
well as 5 years after full occupation.
SWINDON BOROUGH LOCAL PLAN 2011
2.4.20 Swindon Borough Local Plan was adopted in July 2006 and provides a policy
framework until 2011. The Local Plan was adopted under the transitional arrangements
of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 for a period of three years until July
2009. At this time the Secretary of State permitted the extension of some saved
policies, however others have been superseded by the Central Area Action Plan which
was adopted in February 2009 and forms part of the Local Development Framework for
Swindon Borough.
2.4.21 A requirement to Swindon of about 23,000 new dwellings is allocated within the
Structure Plan in the period 1991-2011. Swindon carries the largest proportion of future
housing provision in Wiltshire by virtue of it being the largest settlement in the plan area
and thus providing the most sustainable location in terms of jobs, services and facilities
already available.
2.4.22 The overriding aim of the Local Plan in terms of Transportation is given as “to
minimise the need to travel, especially by car”. Policy T1 lists a number of transport
requirements of development which includes;
providing for convenient access by a choice of transport modes, including public
transport, walking and cycling;
provision of appropriate traffic calming;
local transport improvements to cater for any additional travel generated by the
development, including revenue support for existing bus and rail services;
provision of on site secure cycle and motorcycle parking; and
provision of an appropriate level of car parking.
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2.4.23 A number of other transport policies in the plan deal specifically with issues
such as provision for bus travel, park and ride proposals, access on foot and by bicycle
etc. Policy T4, which deals with the council’s proposals for new Park and Ride sites,
states that land defined on the proposals map will be safe guarded for park and ride
purposes.
2.4.24 In regard to proposals for new roads, Policy T12 identifies the safeguarding of
land for a new road linking Purton Road with Great Western Way. This is one of a
number of schemes identified in the Section 106 agreement for the Northern
Development Area. The road will provide a high standard dual carriageway route to
accommodate the extra traffic generated by the NDA.
2.4.25 The route starts at the Northern Orbital Road/Purton Road junction and then
continues southwards following the former alignment of the Swindon-Cricklade railway
before running parallel to and north of the Swindon-Gloucester railway line. It then
crosses the railway in the vicinity of Cheney Manor Industrial Estate and then heads
southwards meeting Great Western Way.
SWINDON LOCAL TRANSPORT PLAN 2006-2011
2.4.26 The second Local Transport Plan (2006 to 2011) presents a five-year strategy
for transport in the Borough of Swindon. The aims and objectives of the plan were
developed in consultation with the public, user-groups, key stakeholders and public
transport operators to tackle the shared priorities. It also sets out how the Council will
monitor its progress towards certain important targets.
2.4.27 The LTP contains separate strategies for walking, cycling and public transport,
and these are summarised below.
Walking Strategy
2.4.28 The Walking Strategy for Swindon Borough Council’s second Local Transport
Plan will focus on both recreation and utility use, in both rural and urban areas, and will
help to promote opportunities for access and exercise for health benefits as well as
contributing toward the Community Strategy and Corporate aims of reducing social
exclusions and promoting economic activity.
Cycling Strategy
2.4.29 Completion of the urban cycle network and providing more secure cycle
parking facilities are key objectives. In addition, work will be undertaken to investigate
links between the other settlements in the Borough and the urban cycle network.
2.4.30
The objectives of the cycling strategy are:
to maximise the role of cycling as a transport mode, to reduce the use of private cars;
to develop a safe, convenient, efficient and attractive transport infrastructure which
encourages and facilitates the use of walking cycling and public transport and which
minimises reliance on, and discourages unnecessary use of, private cars; and
to ensure that policies to increase cycling and meet the needs of cyclists are fully
integrated into all Council policies and strategies including complementary strategies
relating to environment, education, health and leisure.
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Public Transport (Bus) Strategy
2.4.31 Swindon Borough Council aim to continue to work in partnership with the local
bus operators and users’ groups to identify joint initiatives which will help to increase bus
patronage and satisfaction levels, whilst also attempting to make even more services
commercial.
2.4.32 Developers will continue to have to contribute towards bus services or facilities
and/or to provide them within their developments, and to increase the accessibility of
education, employment, health care and healthy food, as well as to recreation, leisure,
exercise and culture which all contribute to improving the quality of life for all in the
Borough of Swindon.
Public Transport (Rail) Strategy
2.4.33 The Local Transport Plan 2006-2011 does not put forward a separate rail
strategy instead it is included in the Travel Awareness Strategy. The LTP states a
commitment to working with neighbouring authorities, train operators and station
managers, and with the public and employers to encourage greater use of rail as a
sustainable alternative to car travel, particularly for commuting.
2.4.34 Opportunities such as joint rail and bus tickets for commuters will be
investigated. There is already a very strong working relationship between the two major
bus operators in Swindon who accept each others return fare tickets, as well as
established flat-rate day rider fares which could successfully lend themselves to a joint
ticketing arrangement.
SWINDON BOROUGH COUNCIL SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL PLANS
2.4.35 Swindon Borough Council provides guidance for Travel Plans. Sustainable
Travel Plans are considered to have a major role in delivering benefit to residents by
encouraging the use of alternatives to single occupancy car use. Travel Plans should be
tailored to the specific site.
2.4.36 Green transport plans should be used to reduce car usage and increase
walking, cycling and public transport use. Levels of accessibility for all users should be
considered including those with disabilities.
2.5
SUMMARY
2.5.1
This chapter has summarised the key national and local policy framework
under which this residential Travel Plan has been prepared. The Travel Plan aims to
support the objectives of this policy framework. It focuses on delivering sustainable
residential development and the promotion of alternatives to private car-based transport
amongst residents and visitors.
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3.1
TRAVEL PLAN VISION
3.1.1
It is beneficial for a residential Travel Plan to have an overarching vision about
what kind of development it would be desirable to achieve.
3.1.2
Therefore, the overarching vision for the residential development is:
“A sustainable community driven environment for residents that promotes a
range of lifestyle and travel choices which reduces reliance on the private car”
3.1.3
This will be achieved by introducing a package of measures which focus on
promoting access to and from the site to local services and facilities by sustainable
modes of transport as an alternative to the private car.
3.2
TRAVEL PLAN OBJECTIVES
3.2.1
In pursuit of this vision and in light of the aims of both national and local policy,
the Travel Plan will be supported by a number of objectives, as set out below:
1. To reduce the impact and frequency of single-occupancy car journeys on the
local community;
2. To encourage greater use of sustainable transport options in preference to the
private car, including walking and cycling for local journeys;
3. To increase the accessibility of the site by modes of travel other than the car;
4. To protect and enhance the environment in and around the site; and
5. To promote a lifestyle to residents that includes healthy and sustainable living.
3.2.2
Meeting these objectives will help to deliver the overarching sustainable vision
for the proposed residential development. The following chapter outlines some specific
opportunities for the site to help meet these objectives.
3.2.3
The Travel Plan is an evolving document that will adapt over time to reflect the
changing characteristics of the site in relation to resident turnover, which will ultimately
result in ever changing travel habits. This will ensure that a level of sustainable living is
maintained and enhanced where possible.
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4
Site Characteristics and Existing
Opportunities
4.1
INTRODUCTION
4.1.1
This chapter presents information relating to specific characteristics of the
residential development site, together with opportunities for promoting and encouraging
sustainable travel behaviour for its future residents and visitors.
4.2
WALKING
4.2.1 PPG13 states that “walking is the most important mode of travel at the local
level and offers the greatest potential to replace short car trips, particularly under two
kilometres.” As a guide to the extent of the likely walking catchment, the UK Focus on
Personal Travel Report (2005) indicates that around one quarter of all person trips made
are less than one mile, 80% of which were made on foot.
4.2.2
Figure 3 shows the public rights of way near to the site. Two designated public
footpaths cross the site. These are Public Footpath No. 77, which crosses the northern
edge of the site linking the B4553 with Mouldon Hill Country Park, and Public Footpath
No. 78 which crosses the site diagonally from the existing site access track to Ridgeway
Farm on the western boundary to a point approximately 150 metres to the east of the
Peatmoor Roundabout, on the southern boundary of the site.
4.2.3
There are currently no footways on any section of the B4553 Purton Road in
the vicinity of the site due to the fact that there is very limited frontage access and
therefore no current need for a formal footpath. The access strategy for the site will
facilitate improved pedestrian and cycle access along Purton Road through the closure
of the B4553 Purton Road to vehicular traffic except for access to properties with
frontage access. The Peatmoor/ Sparcells/ Hillmead residential areas south of Purton
Road are served by a network of footways throughout providing linkages through to
Swinley Drive and Mead Way.
4.2.4
There is a large residential development immediately to the south of Purton
Road which has good footway links and street lighting throughout meaning that a route
through to the site can be found. The footways through the estate provide connections
through to Swinley Drive where the nearest existing bus stops are located.
4.2.5
Swinley Drive has footways and street lighting on either side facilitating access
to Peatmoor primary school as well as the local facilities on Shearwood Drive, which
include a day nursery, a convenience store, two takeaway restaurants and a public
house. Dropped kerbs/tactile paving exist at several locations on Swinley Drive to assist
pedestrian safety when crossing.
4.2.6
An existing traffic-free foot/cycle path runs west to east from Swinley Drive,
through the Peatmoor Community Woodland, and around the north side of Peatmoor
Lagoon, before passing under Purton Road via a subway and wrapping around the
southern edge of the Sparcells residential area of Swindon. This path then links up with
the former Swindon-Cricklade railway line, part of which now forms a dedicated
pedestrian / cycle route providing access to the Rivermead and Westmead employment
areas.
4.2.7
The old Purton Road provides a good quality pedestrian / cycle link running
from the south-eastern boundary of the site between Mead Way and Thamesdown
Drive. It runs parallel to the new Purton Road passing over the railway line at Moredon
Bridge.
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4.2.8
Beyond this point a path continues up to the very northern end of Purton Road,
just south of the Thamesdown Drive / Purton Road junction. Toucan crossing facilities
are then provided at this junction facilitating access to the wider footway network on
Thamesdown Drive.
4.2.9
Thamesdown Drive has several pedestrian crossings along its length, and the
Orbital Shopping Park is located further north and can be accessed off Thamesdown
Drive. The Orbital Shopping Park contains various retail facilities including a
supermarket, several other retail outlets, as well as an estate agent, a travel agent, a
health club and a restaurant.
4.2.10 A walking isochrones plan has been prepared using ACCESSION. The
isochrones have been generated from the nearby local facilities at the Peatmoor Village
Centre based on a walking speed of 4.8km/hour. The walking isochrones are shown in
Figure 4. The isochrones extend to a 30 minute walk and also identify a 2km (25
minute walk) isochrone to illustrate the approximate extent of a walking catchment area.
4.2.11 Figure 4 demonstrates that the edge of the Ridgeway Farm site is within a 6
minutes walk from the nearest local facilities.
4.3
CYCLING
4.3.1
Paragraph 78 of PPG13 states that “cycling…has the potential to substitute for
short car trips, particularly those under 5km, and to form part of a longer journey by
public transport.”
4.3.2
Figure 3 shows the cycling facilities within the vicinity of the site. A network of
cycle routes exist within the areas of Rivermead, Barnfield and Westmead to the south
of the site enabling cycle journeys to be easily made to schools, employment areas and
local facilities including the west Swindon District Centre. A cycle link on the footbridge
over Mead Way links the Peatmoor and Sparcells residential areas.
4.3.3
The route of the old Purton Road running from the south-eastern boundary of
the site eastwards is designated as a cycle route, providing a traffic free connection
between the Purton Road / Mead Way roundabout towards Thamesdown Drive. Cyclists
are able to continue under Elborough Bridge or they are able to utilise the toucan
crossing along Purton Road, which enables cyclists to connect to other routes in the
area. Other off road cycle routes exist along Thamesdown Drive and there are
additional cycle links along Akers Way.
4.3.4
The alignment of the former Swindon – Cricklade railway provides an additional
traffic-free cycle connection, providing a link between Thamesdown Drive and the
Westmead / Rivermead employment areas. Additional connections off this route provide
access into the West Swindon District Centre.
4.3.5
Figure 5 provides a cycling isochrones plan prepared using ACCESSION. The
isochrones have been generated from the nearby local facilities at the Peatmoor Village
Centre based on a cycle speed of 16kmph. Figure 5 demonstrates that the site is within
a 5 minute cycle from the nearest facilities. Furthermore, the plan indicates that there
are a number of facilities accessible within a 5 km cycle of the site including:
Swindon railway station;
Swindon bus station;
Swindon town centre;
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Hillmead Enterprise Park
Mouldon Hill Country Park;
Rivermead / Westmead employment areas;
Primary and secondary schools;
Supermarkets; and
Leisure centres.
4.4
EXISTING PUBLIC TRANSPORT
BUS SERVICES
4.4.1
The application site is well served to enable travel by public transport. The
nearest bus stops to the site are located on Swinley Drive at the junction with Webb’s
Wood within 400 metres of the centre of the site. These bus stops have a shelter, raised
kerbs to facilitate easier access onto the buses, and up to date timetable information.
4.4.2
Service 19 connects the site to Swindon Town Centre, the Link Centre and the
Outlet Village. The no. 19 service operate on a typical 30 minute frequency during the
day
The bus service network around Swindon is reproduced as Figure 6. Table 4.1 below
summarises the existing bus service availability in the vicinity of the site during the AM
peak (0800-0900), PM peak (1700-1800) and inter peak.
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Table 4.1 Existing Bus Service (Service 19)
Service
No.
19
Days of
Operation
Route
Via.
Sparcells - Peatmoor –
Shaw – Fleming Way
Link Centre,
Westlea, Outlet
Village, Swindon
Bus Station,
Cavendish Square
Fleming Way, Shaw Peatmoor - Sparcells
Daytime
Frequency
Weekday First /
Last Bus*
0649 / 2242
Mon - Sat
2 per hour
0630 / 2250
Service 19 additionally serves Taw Hill and Haydon Wick (ASDA Walmart) in the evenings.
TRAINS
4.4.3
Swindon Railway Station is located approximately 4km to the south east of the
site and is situated on the Great Western Main Line, which benefits from direct Inter City
services to a range of destinations including London, Reading, Cardiff and Bristol. A
summary of major destinations is set out in Table 4.2 below.
4.4.4
Swindon Railway Station is staffed from 05:15 until 00:00 and has self service
ticketing machines and pre-pay ticket collection facilities. Each platform has sheltered
seating and the whole station can be accessed step free. Secure cycle parking facilities
are available and several buses link to the station. The rail station is accessible from the
site via bus service no. 19, and also be service no.18 which stops at the Swindon Outlet
village shopping centre approximately 900 metres from the station. A car park with 578
spaces is open 24 hours each day.
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Table 4.2 Rail Services from Swindon Railway Station
Frequency (per hour)
AM Peak
PM Peak
Off Peak
Journey Time
(mins)
Chippenham
2
2
2
15
Bath Spa
2
2
2
30
Bristol Temple Meads
2
2
2
47
Bristol Parkway
2
2
2
26
Cardiff Central
2
2
2
68
Cheltenham Spa
1
1
1
70
Didcot Parkway
4
3
3
17
Reading
5
5
5
31
London Paddington
5
5
5
62
Gloucester
1
1
1
55
Destination
4.4.5
As seen from Table 4.2, a wide range of destinations are accessible by train
from Swindon. There is an average of five trains per hour to London Paddington
throughout the day and these have typical journey duration of one hour, providing a very
frequent and fast link to the capital. Bristol and Cardiff are served by two trains
respectively per hour, with journeys to Bristol taking less than one hour and those to
Cardiff taking just over one hour. Rail travel is also facilitated to a number of more local
destinations, such as Bath, Chippenham, Stroud, Gloucester and Didcot.
4.4.6
Connecting services from larger interchanges at Bristol Temple Meads and
Reading facilitate travel to a wide range of other destinations across the West Country,
Southern England, the Midlands and the north of England.
4.5
DEVELOPMENT IMPROVEMENTS
4.5.1
The masterplan attached at Appendix A illustrates the access strategy for the
Ridgeway Farm site. Primary access to the main parcel of land will be provided from a
modified roundabout junction to the southeast of the site. The junction will be formed of
four arms comprising the realigned B4553 (west), Purton Road B4534 (north), Sparcells
Drive (east) and B4534 Mead Way (south). This arrangement would provide a main
access to the site and realign the B4553.
4.5.2
At the north-western extent of the site the realigned B4553 would provide
another access. A new priority junction will be created, with the B4553 forming the
major arm and the old B4553 to the south forming the minor arm.
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4.5.3
A further access to the main parcel of land is proposed to be provided at the
southern part of the site from Swinley Drive to replace the existing Swinley Drive / Purton
Road roundabout. The existing Purton Road which currently extends east and west
from this roundabout will be closed to traffic and downgraded to provide a footway /
cycleway.
4.5.4
Pedestrian and cycle access is proposed at various points of the site perimeter.
Purton Road at the south of the site would be closed and become a dedicated cycle way
joining the existing cycle way. Therefore a cycle way would be located east and south of
the site with several access points. Pedestrian access likewise would be provided at
various points and include safe crossing facilities.
4.5.5
The access strategy for the site will facilitate improved pedestrian and cycle
access along Purton Road through the closure of Purton Road to vehicular traffic except
for access to properties with frontage access. The Peatmoor / Sparcells / Hillmead
residential areas south of Purton Road are served by a network of footways throughout
providing linkages to Swinley Drive and Mead Way.
4.5.6
As part of the proposed development the existing bus service 19 will be routed
through the site. Bus stops with raised kerbs and shelters will be provided within the site
to provide access. In addition the Moredon Bridge development is providing new bus
facilities on Purton Road, which will be of benefit to the Ridgeway Farm site. The
service would provide access to the central areas of Swindon, including the railway
station and bus station.
4.5.7
A number of development proposals, including design features, will aid
sustainable travel to and from the site. These are detailed further below:
Internal road hierarchy has been designed to reduce the dominance of the car
The site layout will include:
-
Permeable pedestrian and cycle network;
-
Pedestrian and cycle friendly internal layout including safe crossing
facilities;
-
Parking in accordance with local policy; and
-
Convenient cycle parking.
Speed limits throughout the site of 30mph, with residential streets designed to
encourage speeds below 20mph in line with Manual for Streets principles; and
Through the centre of the site the main spine road will incorporate a section of road
designed to create the perception of a narrowed carriageway. Although the width of
the carriageway will be 7.3m throughout, features such as granite setts and virtual
street narrowing markings will be used to visually reduce the width of the
carriageway from 7.3m to 6m in most active areas of the spine road and thus
encourage lower vehicle speeds.
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4.6
SUMMARY
4.6.1
This section has demonstrated that the site is well located with regards to
sustainable transport modes and that development trips can be accommodated by the
local transport network. There a number of key characteristics of the site that will ensure
its commitment to sustainable development.
4.6.2
There is an extensive network of walking and cycling facilities located nearby.
The existing provision of public transport is good. Bus services operate near to the site
frequently and link to a range of facilities and Swindon town centre. Swindon Railway
Station, located 4km away, offers good and frequent opportunities for long distance
travel.
4.6.3
Furthermore, development proposals are planned to improve the existing
transport network including design features that promote pedestrian and cycle priority. A
range of traffic impact mitigation measures on the surrounding highway network which
includes enhanced provision for pedestrians and cyclists with a dedicated route along
Purton Road. An extended bus service with 30 minute frequency is proposed to route
through the site.
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5
5.1
INTRODUCTION
5.1.1
Having outlined the vision and objectives of the residential Travel Plan, and
examined the opportunities presented by the development site, there is potentially a
wide range of measures that could be implemented to meet the following overall aims
and objectives of the plan:
Reduce the level of single-occupancy car trips associated with travel to and from the
development site;
Facilitate and encourage the sustainable and safe travel of residents and visitor to
and from the site;
Ensure that the differing transport needs of all users are taken into account as far as
practicable;
Work in partnership with the Local Authority, public transport operators, local schools
and other stakeholders to enable a long-term approach to encouraging sustainable
travel; and
Continually manage, develop, evaluate and review the progress of the Residential
Travel Plan.
5.1.2
Through looking at best practice used elsewhere in the UK and through the
experience of Taylor Wimpey in the production of previous residential Travel Plans, the
following general measures have been identified as being likely to be the most effective
initially and will be considered to achieve the overall aim and objectives of this Travel
Plan. They include:
Provision of travel information Welcome Packs for all new residents;
The offer of up to four months free travel on local bus services per household;
The offer of a bicycle discount voucher to residents;
The promotion of car-sharing; and
Travel Plan co-ordination steering group.
5.2
TRAVEL INFORMATION AND MARKETING MEASURES
5.2.1
A Travel Plan information board will be located within the sales office and later
in communal and central areas of the occupied development. An information board will
help to raise awareness of residents and visitors of alternative transport choices and
highlight further the benefits of sustainable travel associated with the development
location.
5.2.2
A Travel Plan Coordinator will be appointed to, amongst other things, coordinate a forum for positive and negative feedback with regard to the Travel Plan. The
Travel Plan Coordinator will then monitor the progress of this group and assess what is
and is not working for this development. Any resulting Travel Plan initiatives will then be
communicated and promoted to the forum.
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RESIDENTS SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL WELCOME PACK
5.2.3
A key initiative that will be delivered through the Travel Plan will be the
provision of a sustainable travel welcome pack to all new residents upon occupation.
This resident’s welcome pack will include information relating to sustainable transport
opportunities in the area and will include, but is not limited to:
An overview of the objectives and structure of the Residential Travel Plan, why the
scheme is in place and the benefits of Travel Plans;
Information on local facilities such as education, health, employment and leisure
opportunities;
Information on local public transport maps and timetable information as well as
operator contact details;
Maps of safe walking and cycling routes for the area including local schools, rail
station, bus stops and the nearest doctors and dentist surgery. These maps will also
show the locations of secure cycle parking;
Information about local cycle parking and local cycle groups and shops;
Information on sustainable living and healthy lifestyle opportunities;
Details of car sharing opportunities, including any Local Authority sponsored
websites, together with information on the benefits of car sharing;
Details of home shopping opportunities to reduce the need to travel focusing on local
retail outlets; and
The offer of a personal travel plan service, on application to the Travel Plan
Coordinator.
5.2.4
The welcome packs will be prepared and delivered to all new household on first
occupation of the development to help encourage the uptake of sustainable transport
options from the outset of their occupation. Careful design and marketing of this
information will be undertaken to ensure that this information is concise and easy to read
so as not to deter the reader.
5.2.5
Furthermore, throughout the phased construction period, residents will be
provided with travel information newsletters that will inform them about local transport
options in the area. These newsletters will also be included within welcome packs for
each new household.
5.3
MANAGING CAR BASED TRAVEL
5.3.1
The purpose of this Travel Plan is not to be ‘anti-car’, rather to promote a range
of alternative travel options that residents can take advantage of when there are
opportunities to replace the use of the car, particularly for shorter journeys. It is
understood that there are circumstances when using a car will be the best option and for
such instances there are two common measures that can be introduced to encourage
the use of private vehicles in a sustainable manner i.e. through Car Clubs and through
Car Sharing. These measures are discussed further below.
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CAR PARKING
5.3.2
Car parking provision and the management of such provision is an important
component of any Travel Plan. Parking management can assist the success of the
Travel Plan in achieving low car use. This is likely to benefit measures such as car
sharing and public transport measures in helping these to become self-sustaining in the
long term. Essentially, parking management can help to encourage lower levels of car
use by providing a disincentive to household multiple car ownership.
5.3.3
The accompanying Transport Assessment states that parking will be provided
for residential purposes in line with local policy standards.
5.3.4
The exact provision will be determined upon confirmation of a fixed
development schedule and will ensure there is an adequate provision of car parking to
meet the needs of residents and visitors without any over-provision which might
otherwise lead to a car dominated development that would not support the Travel Plan
vision or lead to the best use of land.
5.3.5
Therefore, monitoring parking arrangements at the development will form an
important part of this Travel Plan. The appointed Travel Plan Coordinator will undertake
periodic reviews of car parking on-site, and through annual monitoring with residents, to
determine what car parking issues may be occurring; such as any overspill car parking
into neighbouring areas. A view can then be taken on whether there is a need to liaise
with Swindon Borough Council on options for introducing parking restrictions to address
the issue.
CAR SHARING
5.3.6
Car sharing schemes encourage individuals to share private vehicles for
particular journeys. This enables car-based journeys to be made more efficiently and
reduces the overall number of car journeys associated with the development. Residents
can benefit from sharing the costs associated with car travel, and help to foster a
sustainable travel culture within the development and its local communities.
5.3.7
Car sharing can be both formal and informal. Informal car sharing can operate
well between individuals and neighbours in a small development where the
establishment of a car club may not be feasible. Many local journeys e.g. to local shops
and schools can then be shared using a single vehicle. Residents of the proposed
development could be encouraged to car share informally with each other. The benefits
of car sharing will be explained in the welcome pack to encourage residents to pursue
these opportunities.
5.3.8
Formal car sharing involves a more elaborate approach to trip matching, often
focussed on the commuting journey. The proposed development is too small to support
a car sharing initiative on its own. However residents can register on a car-sharing
website and seek matches with other local residents in the area who may be making
similar journeys. The Car Share Swindon website was launched in 2008 to help people
find others to car share with.
5.3.9
As a Travel Plan measure details of the Car Share Swindon website along with
information on the benefits that can be gained from both this and informal car sharing
will be provided within the sustainable travel welcome pack to all new residents at the
proposed development.
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CAR CLUBS
5.3.10 A car club offers members the use of a car, for a yearly membership fee, so
that members have access to the use of a car without any of the cost and hassle of
owning it themselves. The Travel Plan Coordinator will undertake a feasibility study prior
to first occupation of the site to determine the suitability for a dedicated car club.
5.3.11 An existing car club operator, such as City Car Club, would then be
approached to facilitate the scheme if the feasibility study suggests the scheme would
ultimately become viable as a commercial proposition. The Travel Plan Coordinator will
also undertake to determine the viability of this scheme on an area-wide basis i.e. to
incorporate other residential developments nearby as developments progress.
5.4
PUBLIC TRANSPORT MEASURES
BUS
5.4.1
In addition to the local timetables and route maps issued to residents as part of
the Welcome Pack, the following public transport measures will be implemented as part
of the proposed development:
Diversion of bus service 19 into the site. The service will continue to terminate at
Sparcells, but operate through the site rather than along Purton Road. The current
timetable for bus service 19 will allow the service to be diverted at a 30 minute
frequency without the requirement for any additional vehicles.
Provision of real time information data for local bus services – to be located in public
areas. Thamesdown Buses which serve the area are fitted with satellite tracking
technology and real time information boards would be installed at new or existing bus
stop shelters. This will be in addition to the current online live service provided at
http://swindon.acislive.com.
Upon receipted demand, each household will be provided with a discounted / free
travel voucher for local bus services for a trial period (details to be confirmed).
RAIL
5.4.2
The development is served by rail from Swindon Rail Station, within 4km from
the site, where frequent trains provide access to several local destinations and the wider
rail network.
5.4.3
Rail time tables for each of these stations will be provided within the site
welcome packs as well as a map and details on how each of the stations can be
reached by sustainable means.
TRIAL TRAVEL VOUCHERS
5.4.4
To promote the use of local bus services, Taylor Wimpey will offer each
household travel vouchers that will offer free travel on local buses for a set period of
time.
5.4.5
Exact details of how tickets will be provided, the length of term that they will be
valid for and the funding required are yet to be finalised. Discussions with local
operators will be held prior to implementation of the Travel Plan to ensure that these
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details are finalised and that discounted/free tickets are available for residents upon first
occupation.
5.4.6
Experience from previous residential Travel Plans would suggest that free
travel could be provided on the basis of two vouchers per household, each for a period
of two months travel following occupation.
5.4.7
This will mean that if the household has a sole occupant, they will be able to
travel on local bus services for up to four months at no cost to themselves. Where the
household has two occupants who might wish to use local bus services, they will both be
able to do so for up to two months each at no cost to themselves. This will provide a
significant incentive to boost patronage on local bus services following first occupation of
the development.
5.4.8
Residents will be invited to apply for the vouchers by completing the relevant
application forms within their welcome packs.
5.4.9
This offer will provide residents with a level of flexibility in that they can be used
on an irregular basis, for example by someone working part time and only travelling two
or three days a week.
5.5
CYCLING AND WALKING MEASURES
CYCLING
5.5.1
The residential development has been designed to be ‘bike friendly’ and offers
cyclists and pedestrians good accessibility to the surrounding area and the wider
community. The local cycle network will be promoted in the residents welcome packs.
This will help to promote cycling for regular use, including for recreational activities.
5.5.2
Secure cycle parking facilities will be provided on site, in line with the Council’s
cycle parking standards. These will be provided for within garages, where they are
provided, within lobby and entrance areas to blocks of flats and through the provision of
covered cycle stands. The development will seek to support local bicycle shops within
the welcome packs by highlighting their services and including their promotional
literature.
5.5.3
A further measure that could be implemented for the development to boost
cycling numbers is to provide a discount voucher to household to purchase either a
bicycle, or bicycle accessories.
5.5.4
To encourage the use of bicycles, a voucher of £50 will be offered to the first
occupiers of each household, subject to the monitoring and review process for the plan
set out in Table 6.2: Action Plan. Residents would be invited to apply for the £50
voucher through the completion of relevant application forms within the welcome pack.
5.5.5
Applications for this voucher will also be incentivised with the offer of a prize
draw for all applicants to win a new bicycle.
5.5.6
This measure will ensure that the uptake of cycling by residents is consistently
encouraged and will help to sustain the level of interest in sustainable transport options
beyond Taylor Wimpey’s commitment to the implementation and monitoring of the Travel
Plan.
WALKING
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5.5.7
The existing mode share for walking within the surrounding representative ward
of Shaw and Nine Elms is 4.48%, which is below the average national level of 9.99%.
There is great potential for walking trips and encouraging walking trips from the
development will be the main emphasis of measures for pedestrians.
5.5.8
The footways surrounding the site and leading to a range of local facilities
(including education, retail, leisure, employment and health) are in relatively good
condition and well lit. In addition, there are signalised pedestrian crossing points to the
south and east of the development.
5.5.9
Within the development site, the footways will be clear, connected and legible.
They will be implemented to a high standard and will be well lit to enhance perceived
levels of personal safety. As discussed previously, maps will be provided within the
welcome packs to show the location of nearby bus stops, rail station and local amenities.
The pedestrian routes to these will be highlighted clearly.
5.6
TRAVEL PLAN COMMUNITY STEERING GROUP
5.6.1
The Travel Plan Coordinator, appointed by Taylor Wimpey, will encourage a
feedback mechanism for both positive and negative feedback from residents via a
Community Steering Group. Residents will be invited to be part of the steering group
within their welcome packs.
5.6.2
The steering group mechanism will take the form of a community newsletter
and focus group and will give residents the opportunity to voice their views and provide
feedback to aid in progressing the Travel Plan and helping the Travel Plan Co-ordinator
understand what ‘works’ for the residents. The implementation of the Residential Travel
Plan will be very much a two-way process and this mechanism will ensure residents are
brought ‘on-board’ to the measures being introduced within their community.
5.7
RESIDENTIAL BROADBAND CONNECTIONS
5.7.1
Taylor Wimpey will provide all new houses with the infrastructure to connect to
broadband where it is available locally, which will enable residents to subscribe to
commercial internet/broadband services. This will help to facilitate home-working,
internet shopping and assist in identifying car share companions via websites such as
Car Share Swindon, which in turn will help to reduce the number of overall journeys
being made from the site, including single occupancy car use. The availability of local
shopping outlets that offer home delivery services will be communicated through the
welcome pack.
5.8
SUMMARY
5.8.1
This section has set out each of the individual measures that will be
implemented as part of the Residential Travel Plan and how it is intended that these will
be delivered.
5.8.2
A Travel Plan Co-ordinator appointed for the site by Taylor Wimpey will be
responsible for the Travel Plan and for direct implementation of each of the measures
and the collation of information required for the promotional material. Further details of
the implementation and management of this plan are discussed within the following
chapters.
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6
Management and Implementation of the
Travel Plan
6.1
TRAVEL PLAN CO-ORDINATOR
6.1.1
The appointed Travel Plan Co-ordinator will undertake the onsite management
and implementation of the plan, and will be appointed prior to occupation of the
development to ensure that every effort is made to challenge and influence travel
behaviour before resident travel patterns are established. The role of this Co-ordinator
will involve:
Assisting in the creation of the welcome pack travel information and Travel Plan
promotional material;
Acting as a point of contact for resident queries;
Co-ordinating the Travel Plan Community Steering Group mechanism;
Ensuring that all travel information and data disseminated is accurate and up to date;
Co-ordinating with local schools;
Co-ordinating Travel Plan monitoring surveys;
Co-ordinating, managing and distributing the promotional bus and bicycle vouchers;
Offering a personal travel planning service to new residents (on application)
Promoting car sharing through the Car Share Swindon scheme;
Disseminating results of the surveys to all residents, Taylor Wimpey and Swindon
Borough Council;
Monitoring and reporting on progress of initiatives and targets;
Updating the Travel Plan document as necessary, putting in place any actions
required to resolve any problems, issues and target updates; and
Liaising with Swindon Borough Council.
6.1.2
If the initially appointed Travel Plan Co-ordinator is changed, Taylor Wimpey
will replace the position holder with an equally suitable replacement, and Swindon
Borough Council notified of their contact details accordingly.
6.2
IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
6.2.1
Implementation of the Travel Plan will be important in the development and
uptake of its suggestions. The Travel Plan needs to be in place before new residents
move in and the measures suggested need be effortless for residents to take part in.
6.2.2
Table 6.1 illustrates the implementation strategy for the Travel Plan and
highlights how the sustainable nature of the development will be achieved.
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Table 6.1 – Implementation Plan
Time
Task/Measure
Appoint and fund a site Travel Plan Co-ordinator
Prior to
Occupation
Undertake car club feasibility study
Prepare Resident Welcome Packs
Negotiate bicycle voucher with local retailer
Negotiate bus faster tickets with local operator
From first
Occupation
Distribute Resident’s Welcome Pack
Promote car sharing opportunities
Promote home working / shopping
Promote newly extended bus service
6.3
6.3.1
RESIDENTS
All residents will be encouraged to co-operate in implementing this policy by:
Raising awareness of how much they use their car and to try to use it less; and to
Reduce their car dependency by the targets set within the Travel Plan, which will
have a significant impact on congestion and the environment.
6.3.2
As with all plans and associated measures it is necessary to set out a
timescale for implementation and review. Table 6.2 below provides an Action Plan for
the site. This includes measures to be implemented on site, timescales for strategic
reviews, the objectives that the measures will work towards and responsibility for
implementing measures. The Action Plan will be updated to reflect any changes that are
made in the review process.
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Table 6.2 Action Plan
Implementation
Timescale
Measure
Who
Provision of external broadband infrastructure to each unit if available
locally to enable future connection
Prior to First
Occupation and
Marketing and
Sales
Taylor Wimpey
Appointment of a suitably qualified Travel Plan Coordinator
Develop Welcome Pack - to include a full range of travel information for
each new household
Detailed review of provision of bus tickets and cycle vouchers
Taylor Wimpey
and Travel Plan
Coordinator
Determine feasibility of car club
Marketing & Sale
of Units
Provision of Welcome Pack on sale agreement
Sales Staff &
Travel Plan
Coordinator
Provision of on demand bus “taster” tickets
Provision of on demand cycle discount vouchers
Provision of newsletters to inform residents
First Occupation
Set up and manage a Travel Plan steering group involving new residents
and the local community;
Provision of external infrastructure to enable future broadband connection
at each household for the facilitation of home working;
Promotion of on-site Car Club (if it has proven to be feasible)
Promotion of Internet based car share scheme
After occupation
of 30%, 60% and
100% of
dwellings
Resident Travel and Traffic Surveys to be undertaken upon occupation of
100th unit, to determine baseline mode share data and establish adopted
travel patterns.
Analyse Resident Travel Surveys; agreement of any additional
appropriate measures and final targets
Travel Plan
Coordinator
Update Travel Plan as appropriate to outline definitive measures
Re-submit up to date Travel Plan
1 year after full
occupation
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Undertake snap shot surveys, present findings for discussion to the local
Authority – agree any additional measures to be implemented and targets
3 years after full
occupation
Repeat of detailed Resident Travel and Traffic Surveys – analysis to be
presented and recovery measures agreed where appropriate
5 years after full
occupation
At Year 5, all findings to be reported. At this point, the way forward for the
Travel Plan and continued monitoring process will be agreed. This may
include a revision of targets.
27
7
7.1
CONTEXT
7.1.1
Monitoring of the Travel Plan will be important in understanding the changing
nature of residents’ travel habits and to assess the performance of the Travel Plan.
Existing measures will be reviewed and alternative methods introduced where necessary
to achieve the outline targets.
7.2
7.2.1
TARGETS
Following completion of the development, the goal of the Travel Plan is to:
Achieve a year on year reduction in the mode share of single occupancy car trips
generated by the development (although it is anticipated that this will already be at a
low level given the potential for walking, cycling and public transport use); and
Achieve a year on year increase in the mode share of sustainable modes e.g. public
transport and cycling and walking for shorter journeys.
7.2.2
To achieve these goals early in the development process, when occupation of
the development will gradually increase to full occupation, the overall aim will be to
actively promote the Travel Plan to new residents and achieve a minimum take up rate
of 25% for subsidised bus and bike travel vouchers.
7.2.3
During the initial implementation period Taylor Wimpey will endeavour to
achieve or exceed the minimum targets.
7.2.4
Targets are based on mode shares of journey to work trips from Shaw and
Nine Elms ward. It is considered that although the site is located in Purton ward, Shaw
and Nine Elms is more reflective of out of town developments to the west of Swindon.
Purton itself is a more rural ward comprising Purton Village.
7.2.5
The focus of the Travel Plan will be to achieve a milestone of a 3% reduction in
the number of single occupancy car trips three years after full occupation of the site.
Following the achievement or otherwise of this milestone the progress of the Travel Plan
will be reviewed with the aim of achieving a reduction of a further 3% in the mode share
of car trips by the end of year 5 from full occupation. Given the existing low level of
walking and public transport use within the representative wards it is anticipated that this
mode shift will be transferred to walking, bicycle, bus, car passengers and working from
home given the promotion of sustainable modes of travel and the use of on-site Car Club
and car sharing schemes. The reduction in car driver trips is the focus of target setting.
7.2.6
Table 7.1 below shows the proposed baseline modal share targets for the
Residential Travel Plan. These have been developed from journey to work data for the
local area and are intended to form a reasonable benchmark for the monitoring of the
Travel Plan at this stage.
7.2.7
These targets will be reviewed following the completion of the first residential
survey, after 30% of dwellings are occupied.
11210268-PT3
28
Table 7.1 Existing and Target Modal Shares
Average of
representative
wards
Modal Split
Target
Modal Split
Target
Modal Split
Target
1 Year
3 Years
5 Years
Train
1.1%
1%
1%
1%
Bus
6.4%
6%
7%
7%
M/C
0.5%
1%
1%
1%
Car Driver
68.1%
68%
65%
62%
Car Passenger
6.9%
8%
8%
8%
Taxi
1.6%
0%
0%
0%
Bike
3.5%
3%
4%
5%
Walk
4.5%
4%
5%
6%
Working from
home
7.2%
9%
9%
10%
Other
0.2%
0%
0%
0%
Mode
Source: 2001 Census
7.3
FUNDING
7.3.1
Taylor Wimpey is committed to this Travel Plan and to setting aside the
appropriate budget for its delivery. Taylor Wimpey will be responsible for the funding,
management and delivery of the Residential Travel Plan in accordance with an S106
Agreement.
7.3.2
The inclusion of targets within a Travel Plan is required to ensure that progress
against meeting the vision and objectives can be monitored and reported. Targets also
help to ensure that Travel Plan measures are effective in encouraging sustainable travel
patterns.
7.3.3
To ensure the delivery of the Travel Plan measures stated in Section 5, ‘output’
targets have been proposed for this Travel Plan. These targets will ensure that the
stated measures are delivered and will help to encourage sustainable travel patterns
from first occupation of the residential development. The following output-related targets
are therefore proposed for this Travel Plan.
11210268-PT3
29
Table 7.2 Output Targets
Trigger Point
Prior to
Occupation
On Occupation
7.4
Task/Measure
Appointment of appropriate agent to facilitate Travel Plan
measures
Creation of Residents Welcome Packs and all associated
materials.
Distribution of a Welcome Pack to all new residents within 1 week
of their occupation.
MONITORING
7.4.1
Targets related to modal split / shift, are useful in assessing the effectiveness
of a Travel Plan and must take into account individual site characteristics. As well as
headline targets relating to car trips and mode share for public transport, cycling and
walking, additional indicators may also provide meaningful results. For example, mode
share could be impacted upon by a range of external factors beyond the residential
development. Changes in residents’ attitudes might also prove to be an equally
important factor in indicating the success of the Travel Plan.
7.4.2
Initially it is possible to estimate the likely trips from the site based on local
census data. This data is the best forecast of the type, number and mode of trips from
the site before the development is operational and can be used to estimate targets
before the site is occupied, providing a base for monitoring.
7.4.3
However, the most accurate data from which to understand actual travel
patterns and traffic flows generated by the site will be from the traffic and residential
travel surveys. The first of these surveys will be carried out once 30% of dwellings are
occupied and will ascertain base traffic and residents travel patterns. The surveys will
include traffic counts at the site access points, residential questionnaires to identify site
modal split and feedback from the community steering forum. The undertaking of these
surveys will be managed by the Travel Plan Coordinator. Specifically, these surveys will
aid to identify accurate mode share targets in agreement with the Local Authority.
7.4.4
A resident’s travel survey has been specifically prepared for the proposed
development. This is provided as Appendix B.
7.4.5
These detailed surveys will then be repeated and will form the main technical
analysis to be included in the Travel Plan monitoring report where possible. Further
surveys will be carried out once 60% and 100% of dwellings are occupied and then 1, 3
and 5 years after full occupation. Where possible public transport patronage levels from
and to the site will be provided by the bus operator, using data recorded by the onvehicle electronic ticketing machine. A further indicator of initial public transport
patronage levels will be provided by the take up of the vouchers offered to residents.
Details relating to the uptake and use of the Car Club will be provided by the Car Club
operator. These timescales for monitoring and review have been taken from Wiltshire
Council Residential Travel Plan Guidance.
11210268-PT3
30
7.4.6
The monitoring and review of the Plan will be managed by the Travel Plan Coordinator, following which a monitoring report will be submitted to Swindon Borough
Council. The Travel Plan Co-coordinator, in consultation with Taylor Wimpey and
Swindon Borough Council, will then have an input into what new measures or
interventions may be required should targets not be met and a way forward will be
agreed.
7.4.7
Taylor Wimpey is fully committed to the monitoring process of the Residential
Travel Plan.
7.5
REMEDIAL ACTIONS
7.5.1
SMART targets will be fully reviewed following the subsequent phases of
monitoring (Years 1, 3 and 5 following full occupation), to ensure that the targets set
remain SMART.
7.5.2
Regardless of the exact level for the targets, the Travel Plan requires a
Remedial Action Plan which can be set in motion following each monitoring phase in the
event that the agreed targets are not be met. A proposed Remedial Action Plan is set
out in Table 7.3 below, with meetings undertaken by the Travel Plan Coordinator.
Table 7.3 Remedial Action Plan
Order to be Taken
1
2
Action
Notification of potential failure to meet agreed target
TPC to arrange meeting with local authority to discuss way forward
and agreement of remedial measures
Set in to action remedial measures (such as):
3
Pursue offer of a full ‘Personal Travel Planning’ service to all
residents
TRO for double yellow lining throughout site to deal with on-street
parking if occurring and deemed to be to an extent such that
sustainable travel is negatively impacted
11210268-PT3
4
Continue to monitor progress of measures against the targets
5
TPC to report progress to local authority. If necessary, TPC to
arrange meeting with local authority to discuss further potential
measures and possible revision of future targets
31
8
Ongoing Management
8.1
THE FUTURE OF THE RESIDENTIAL TRAVEL PLAN
8.1.1
This residential Travel Plan provides details of a series of measures to be
introduced both prior to and on occupation of the proposed development.
8.1.2
A Travel Plan co-coordinator who will be operated by Taylor Wimpey will
implement the initial measures and carry out the monitoring.
8.1.3
As outlined in the previous chapter, the implementation plan states that the
majority of the Travel Plan measures will be undertaken on occupation of the
development to maximise sustainable travel patterns amongst residents from the outset.
A residents group will be encouraged to continue to develop the Travel Plan and
promote it to current and future residents.
11210268-PT3
32
9
Summary
9.1
SUMMARY
9.1.1
WSP Development and Transportation has been appointed by Taylor Wimpey
to prepare a residential Travel Plan in support of up to 800 residential units, proposed as
part of the development of land to the north west of Swindon.
9.1.2
This Travel Plan outlines a series of objectives and measures aimed at
encouraging all future occupiers and visitors of the proposed residential development to
make use of sustainable modes of travel where possible, and to reduce their reliance on
private car-based transport. The measures need to be implemented before occupation
to encourage the transfer to sustainable modes of travel from the outset.
9.1.3
The Travel Plan supports the objectives of national, regional and local policy
and focuses on delivering sustainable residential development through the promotion of
alternatives to private car-based transport amongst residents.
9.1.4
The site is well located to take advantage of existing public transport services
with a number of buses routing nearby to the site and a rail station located 4km from the
site.
9.1.5
A Travel Plan Co-coordinator will oversee the operation of the Travel Plan and
implementation of the measures outlined.
9.1.6
Modal shift targets will be worked towards that have been set based on local
census data. It is anticipated that once the first resident travel surveys have been
undertaken targets will evolve to focus on the specific travel strength and weaknesses of
the proposed development.
9.1.7
Full monitoring will be carried out to report annual mode shift. Ongoing
management and the scope for the Travel Plan to evolve will ensure that targets are reevaluated and met according to the strengths and weaknesses of the proposed
development with regard to sustainable travel.
9.1.8
Various development improvement measures will also contribute to the main
aim of reduced single occupancy car trips including a new cycleway and bus service as
well as a carefully designed site layout to promote travel by sustainable modes.
9.1.9
The implementation of this Travel Plan should ensure that the proposed
development has a reduced transport impact achieved by introducing a package of
measures which focus on promoting access to and from the site to local services and
facilities by sustainable modes of transport as an alternative to the private car.
11210268-PT3
33
Figures and Appendices
KEY
SITE
RAIL LINE
MAJOR ROAD
MINOR ROAD
THAMESDOWN DRIVE
B4534 WESTFIELD WAY
N:\Ridgeway Farm, Swindon\DRAWINGS\COREL\TP Figs\FIG-1-SITE LOCATION & HIGHWAY NETWORK.cdr
B4553
B4534 PURTON ROAD
PURTON ROAD
B4553 PURTON ROAD
B4587 AKERS WAY
SWINLEY DRIVE
STONE LANE
WASH POOL
B4534 MEAD WAY
REPRODUCED FROM THE
ORDNANCE SURVEY MAP WITH
THE PERMISSION OF THE
CONTROLLER OF HER MAJESTY'S
STATIONERY OFFICE. LICENCE
NO. 100016037. CROWN
COPYRIGHT RESERVED.
0
SITE LOCATION & LOCAL
HIGHWAY NETWORK
500m
1Km
1
KEY
SITE
NATIONAL CYCLE
ROUTE 45
CYCLE ROUTE
N:\Ridgeway Farm, Swindon\DRAWINGS\COREL\TP Figs\FIG-3-Cycle & pedestrian network.cdr
FOOTPATH
REPRODUCED FROM THE
NO. 100016037. CROWN
COPYRIGHT RESERVED.
0
LOCAL CYCLE &
PEDESTRIAN NETWORK
500m
1Km
3
Date Modified: 18/03/2010
KEY
Proposed Development Area
Educational Establishments
Other Classification
PEDESTRIAN ACCESSIBILITY
Nursery School
Drawn By: ukmdj001
(Walk Speed: 4.8lmph)
Primary School
0 to 5 minutes
Healthcare Services
6 to 10 minutes
Purton
GPs
11 to 15 minutes
Sports and Fitness
16 to 20 minutes
Dentists
21 to 25 minutes*
Pharmacists
26 to 30 minutes
Opticians
87
B4
53
Midcounties Co-Op
Ak
Morrisons
s
er
W
ay
d
n Roa
Purto
B4553
Spar
kers Way
B4 587 A
Library
*25mins (2km) = PPG13 Standard
Isochrones generated using Network
Analyst 9.2 ®1999-2006 ESRI Inc.
All Rights Reserved.
g e Roa
d
Tesco Express
06
Vic
ar a
ea d
B453 4 M
0
B4
Wa
y
Lydiard Millicent
ea d
4 M
B45 3
B4
28
9
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Wa
B4 289
B4
28
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at
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00
89
B4
53
4
ad
R
ne
Swindon
TITLE:
RIDGEWAY FARM
SWINDON
PEDESTRIAN ACCESSIBILITY
FIGURE No:
d
oa
Reproduced from Ordnance Survey data by
permission of the Controller of Her Majesty's
Stationary Office ® Crown copyright (2008).
All rights reserved. License No. 0100031673.
® 2008 NAVTEQ
0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
The Park
1
Kilometres
9 G
rea
tW
es
te
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e
B42
Me
B42
8
n Way
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e
6
Ke
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e
at W
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ay
B4
00
6
00
B4
File: Q:\WSP_UK\WSP_D\Basing\Ridgeway Farm, Swindon 11210268-PT3\Analysis\ArcGIS\MapDocuments\PT1\Ped Access with Facilities.mxd
3
ad
orth Ro
Whi twoAmenities
B4006 Whitw
rth Road
B4006Other
anorR oad
heney M
B4006 C
4
55
B4
5
B4
B4553
Foodstores
4
rn
W
ay
Date Modified: 22/03/2010
KEY
Cricklade
Highworth
Ridgeway Farm Site
Foodstores
Aldi
A361
CYCLE ACCESSIBILITY
Asda
(Cycle Speed: 16kmph)
Lidl
Drawn By: ukmdj001
0A361
to 5 minutes
Midcounties/Midlands Co-Op
6 to 10 minutes
Morrisons
Blunsdon
11 to 15 minutes
Watchfield
Sainsbury's
16 to 20 minutes
Somerfield
21 to 25 minutes
Spar
26 to 30 minutes
Tesco
NHS Choices
A361
Healthcare Services
A4311
A361
Other Convenience Stores
GPs
Purton
Educational Establishments
South Marston
File: Q:\WSP_UK\WSP_D\Basing\Ridgeway Farm, Swindon 11210268-PT3\Analysis\ArcGIS\MapDocuments\PT1\Cycle Access with Facilities.mxd
Shrivenham
A420
Other Classification
Sports and Fitness
Bourton
A419
A420
Dentists
Nursery School
Pharmacists
Primary School
Opticians
Secondary School
Hospitals
Further Education
A4311
Lydiard Millicent
A4259
A4312
Swindon
Hospitals (A and E)
Walk-in Centres
A3102
Isochrones generated using Network
Analyst 9.2 ®1999-2006 ESRI Inc.
All Right Reserved.
A4289
A4289
A4259
Bishopstone
A3102
A3102
Wanborough
A4259
M4
Wootton Bassett
A4361
TITLE:
RIDGEWAY FARM
SWINDON
CYCLE ACCESSIBILITY
A419
Liddington
Wroughton
FIGURE No:
Reproduced from Ordnance Survey data by
permission of the Controller of Her Majesty's
Stationary Office ® Crown copyright (2008).
All rights reserved. License No. 0100031673.
® 2008 NAVTEQ
A346
0
0.6
1.2
1.8
2.4
3
Kilometres
A4361
Chiseldon
5
KEY
ORBITAL
SHOPPING
CENTRE
SITE
ROUTE 19 EVERY 30 MINUTES
ROUTE 19 EVENING SERVICE
ROUTE 19a PEAK SERVICE
N:\Ridgeway Farm, Swindon\DRAWINGS\COREL\TP Figures\FIG-6-PUBLIC TRANSPORT NETWORK.cdr
19
SPARCELLS
19a
19
REPRODUCED FROM THE
NO. 100016037. CROWN
COPYRIGHT RESERVED.
0
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
NETWORK
500m
1Km
TO THE
TOWN CENTRE
6
Appendix A
11210268-PT3
Master Plan
Appendix B
11210268-PT3
Resident's Travel Survey
Example Residential survey
RIDGEWAY FARM
RESIDENT TRAVEL SURVEY
As part of the monitoring process for the Ridgeway Farm Residential Travel Plan, we are
currently conducting a Travel Plan Survey. We would be grateful if one member of your
household could complete this brief survey to help us better understand your travel
patterns, needs and how we may be able to assist with your travel requirements.
It will take about 5 minutes to complete and all responses will be treated confidentially.
If you have any queries about the survey, or for guidance on how to complete it, please
do not hesitate to contact me at the details provided below:
(Travel Plan Coordinator to complete details)
Travel Plan Officer:
Telephone:
E-mail:
SECTION A: About You and Your Home
1. Are you:
Male
Female
2. Which age range do you fall into?
16 – 25
26 – 35
36 – 45
46 – 55
56 – 65
65+
3. How long have you lived at your current address?
0 – 6 months
6 months – 1year
1 – 2 years
2 – 3 years
3 – 4 years
4 – 5 years
1
4. Do you or any member of your household own a car?
Yes
No
If yes, how many in total? __________
SECTION B – ABOUT YOUR TRAVEL TO AND FROM YOUR HOME
5. How do you most frequently travel to and from your home? (Choose the mode of
travel that you use most often)
Walk
Cycle
Bus
Train
Car share (as driver or passenger)
Car (alone)
Motorcycle or Scooter
6. How often do you use the following modes of travel for journeys from your home?
(Tick all modes that you ever use, for all or part of a journey, choosing the frequency
with which you use them)
TRAVEL MODE
Very often (7 or
more in every
10 trips
Quite Often
(between 3 and
6 out of every
10 trips
Occasionally
(less than 2 out
of every 10
trips)
Never
Walk
Cycle
Bus
Train
Car share (as
driver or
passenger)
Car (alone)
Motorcycle or
Scooter
2
7. Have you changed your most common mode of transport since relocating to this
development?
Yes
No
If yes, what was the main reason for this change?
………………………………………………………….
SECTION C – ABOUT YOUR FUTURE JOURNEYS
8. Which of the following changes would most encourage you to cycle for journeys in
the local area? (if you already cycle, which would you most like to see?)
Safer, better lit cycle paths
Improve cycle paths on the journey to town centre/rail station
Improve cycle parking at this development
Arrangements to buy a bicycle at discount
Improved crossing facilities
Improved cycle parking at local facilities – where?
Other (please specify)
None of the above
9. Which of the following changes would most encourage you to use public transport
for your journeys in the local area? (If you already travel to by public transport,
which would you most like to see)
More direct bus routes
More frequent bus services
More frequent train services
Better lighting at bus shelters and on footpaths
More convenient bus drop-off points
Better bus links to work from station
Public transport information
None of the above
3
10. Which of the following changes would most encourage you to walk for journeys in
local area? (If you already walk, which would you most like to see?)
Cleaner, better maintained workplace footpaths
Better lighting on workplace footpaths
More improved pedestrian crossing points
Higher presence of security around the site
Slower speed limits
Better street lighting in the local area
None
Please use the following box to provide any comments you wish to make in relation to
travel in the local area.
Thank you for your time.
4

Ridgeway Farm, North West Swindon Residential

Transcription

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