CRANFIELD UNIVERSITY TRAVEL PLAN 2012-2017 Cranfield Campus December 2012 Approval dated: December 2012 1 46 Version Number: 1
Travel Plan Working Group Gareth Ellis Mattia Anesa Ned Ashby Jo Catterill Mike Devonshire Stewart Elsmore Caroline Forrest-Holden Howard Jeffrey Charles Mcmanus Kaye Miller Abdulkarim Nasir Emma Nilsen Margaret Norwich Atma Prakash Jo Price John Street Debbie Temple William Stephens Travel Plan Project Manager School of Management (SoM) Representative Cranfield Health Representative Human Resources (HR) Representative School of Engineering (SoE) Representative Residences Representative Residences Representative Information Technology (IT) Representative Information Technology (IT) Representative School of Applied Science (SAS) Representative Cranfield Students Association (CSA) Representative Residential Services Representative Student Services Representative Cranfield Students Association (CSA) Representative Residential Services Representative Estates Department Representative Estates Department Representative Vice-Chancellor s Office (VCO) Representative Approval dated: December 2012 2 46 Version Number: 1
CRANFIELD UNIVERSITY TRAVEL PLAN 2012-2017 Cranfield Campus December 2012 Client Cranfield University Cranfield Campus, Cranfield, Bedfordshire, MK43 0AL United Kingdom Consultant WSP UK Ltd 66-68 Hills Road Cambridge CB2 1LA UK Tel: +44 (0)12 2355 8081 Fax: +44 (0)12 2355 8051 www.wspgroup.co.uk Registered Address WSP UK Limited 01383511 WSP House, 70 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1AF Approval dated: December 2012 3 46 Version Number: 1
Table of Contents 1 Introduction... 5 2 Aims, Objectives and Benefits of a Travel Plan... 7 3 Sustainable Travel Opportunities... 9 4 Staff and Student Engagement... 17 5 Travel Plan Measures and Actions... 22 6 Travel Plan Management & Delivery... 30 7 Monitoring & Targets... 33 Figure 1.1 Figure 2.1 Figure 3.1 Figure 3.2 Figure 3.3 Figure 3.4 Figure 3.5 Figure 4.1 Figure 4.2 Figure 5.1 Figure 6.1 Table 3.1 Table 4.1 Table 5.1 Table 7.1 Site Location Plan Cranfield Travel Plan Benefits National Route 51 Cycle Path Distribution of staff living in local area Walking Isochrones from Site Cycling Isochrones from Site Milton Keynes Central Station What do you consider to be the main traffic problem? What would encourage you to use more sustainable travel modes? Potential Walk/Cycle Routes Between Cranfield University & Cranfield Village Recommended Management Structure for Travel Plan Delivery Existing Bus Services serving Cranfield campus Travel Survey Mode Share Results Summary of Cranfield campus Travel Plan Measures Initial Output Targets Appendix A - Staff and Student Travel Survey Form - 2012 Approval dated: December 2012 4 46 Version Number: 1
1 Introduction 1.1.1 Cranfield University is a renowned Postgraduate Institution specialising in Aerospace, Automotive, Energy, Environment Healthcare, Management, Manufacturing, Security and Defence. It is also a major local employer with around 1,800 staff on the Cranfield campus and a student population that comprises over 3,000 Masters and Doctoral students (full time and part time). In addition, continuing professional development delegates also attend the University for Courses throughout the academic year. 1.1.2 This Travel Plan aims to increase the travel choice for students, staff, visitors and associated business travel to and from the Cranfield campus, whilst reducing carbon emissions. 1.1.3 Cranfield campus is situated to the west of Cranfield, Central Bedfordshire, approximately one mile from Cranfield Village centre, and is bordered by the Cranfield Technology Park to the south and Cranfield Airport to the east (see Figure 1). The campus is located approximately 6 miles east of Milton Keynes and 8 miles south west of Bedford. Junctions 13 and 14 of the M1 are nearby and the A421/A428 dual carriageway provides a fast link to the A1. The University also has a second campus at Shrivenham which although not directly covered by this Travel Plan, is intended to benefit from some of the wider Travel Plan measures effecting University Policy. Figure 1.1: Cranfield campus location Approval dated: December 2012 5 46 Version Number: 1
1.2 Purpose of the Travel Plan 1.2.1 The Travel Plan has been prepared by WSP UK Ltd on behalf of Cranfield University and overseen by the Board for Energy & Environment. It constitutes a package of measures designed to work for the University and help influence the travel choices made by staff and students travelling to and from the Cranfield campus. The Travel Plan builds on the previous plan developed in 2006 and the work of the Travel Plan Working Group in 2011 and 2012. The Travel Plan Working Group included Staff and Students with representation from across the University. The plan has also been developed with engagement with students and staff needing to travel daily to and from the campus (via stakeholder workshops and a campus wide travel survey), and appreciates the need for business travel to and from the campus for research, teaching, conferencing and meetings. The Travel Plan is intended to have a five year lifespan, during which time regular monitoring will be undertaken. 1.2.2 The Travel Plan contributes to the key performance measures of Quality of Experience and Environmental Performance in the Strategic Plan and will help to extend the scope of the Carbon Management Plan to include travel emissions. 1.2.3 This Plan will also assist the University achieving continuous commitment to ISO14001. Furthermore, the Travel Plan will address travel issues which arise as the University continues to develop and grow, for example the increasing demand for car parking spaces. In the preparation of the Travel Plan analysis of best practice and case studies of other campus Travel Plans has been undertaken, relative to campuses of similar size and location. 1.2.4 A key factor in the evolution of this revised Travel Plan is the University making a commitment to develop the role of the Travel Plan Coordinator (TPC) for the Cranfield site. The TPC champions the Travel Plan throughout its development and provides a single point of contact for the Plan, allowing better co-operation and dialogue with key stakeholders and promoting a sense of ownership of the Travel Plan. Approval dated: December 2012 6 46 Version Number: 1
2 Aims, Objectives and Benefits of a Travel Plan 2.1 Aims 2.1.1 The overarching aim of the Cranfield University Travel Plan is to: Improve the travel options for students, staff and visitors to and from the Cranfield campus, whilst reducing environmental impacts. 2.2 Objectives 2.2.1 The objectives of this Travel Plan, as identified both by the University and through stakeholder consultation are to: Make alternatives to the private car, such as cycling and walking, easier and safer for staff and students to use Further promote and develop existing sustainable travel initiatives (Car Share / Public Transport) Extend the scope of the University s Carbon Management Plan to include travel emissions and seek to reduce CO 2 from University associated transport Tackle travel issues which have arisen as the University continues to develop and grow, for example increase in demand for car parking spaces Make the Cranfield campus a more attractive environment to encourage student intake and improve staff working environment Support future planning applications associated with the University 2.3 Travel Plan Benefits 2.3.1 A Travel Plan can be defined as a package of measures tailored to needs of individual organisations and aimed at promoting sustainable travel choices and reducing reliance on the car. Travel Plans are dependent upon the site circumstances of individual organisations and therefore can address a wide variety of travel issues. 2.3.2 In addition to the aims and objectives of the Travel Plan, the wider potential benefits from its implementation are shown in Figure 2 below: Approval dated: December 2012 7 46 Version Number: 1
Figure 2.1: Cranfield Travel Plan Benefits Reduced local congestion Helps create an attractive local environment Reduced pollutants and improved air quality Improved travel choices Improved travel choices More attractive campus Improved access Reduced travel cost Reduced journey times Reduced car parking demand Release car parking space Helps in securing planning permission More attractive campus Healthier staff and students Support for environmental policies Reduced carbon emissions Approval dated: December 2012 8 46 Version Number: 1
3 Sustainable Travel Opportunities 3.1.1 Focusing on existing conditions, this section of the Travel Plan identifies what transport options are currently available to the campus and where potential opportunities lie for the improvement of sustainable travel and promotion. 3.2 Campus location 3.2.1 As previously stated, Cranfield campus is situated west of Cranfield, Central Bedfordshire, approximately 1 mile from Cranfield Village centre, and is bordered by the Cranfield Technology Park to the south and Cranfield Airport to the east. The campus is located approximately 6 miles east of Milton Keynes and 8 miles south west of Bedford. The A421 and A428 provide access to the A1 in the east and the M1 is very close to the west, being accessed via local roads. 3.2.2 The Cranfield Parish Plan (located within the Marston Vale Local Area Transport Plan- April 2012) identifies that 79% of Cranfield residents depend heavily on their private cars for transport. Of those who do use public transport, nearly all residents (within a local survey) stated they are happy with provision in the mornings, but very few are happy with it at any other time. The majority of respondents also thought that local bus shelters are not well maintained and that they are in the wrong places. Around 7% of respondents stated that they cycle to work and 7% of children cycle to school, however 83% of respondents said that they would support a cycleway if provided. 3.2.3 The evidence from the Marston Vale Local Area Plan identifies that the semi-rural nature of the campus and surrounding local area can lead to a dependency on car use, particularly for staff, however a number of alternative travel opportunities are currently available to staff and students as detailed below, in relation to rail, bus, car share and cycle/walking. 3.3 Cycle and Walking 3.3.1 The nearest cycle route to the University is known as "The University Way", National Route 51 of National Cycle Network, this being the principle route in Bedfordshire running from Milton Keynes to Bedford and Sandy. The west section runs south of the campus through Cranfield Village, with a mixture of sections being traffic free options and others on open roads. Some sections are only suitable for mountain bikes e.g. between Hulcote and Wood End Lane meaning that the alternative route is to follow the road between Salford and Cranfield. The west section from Milton Keynes, via Marston Moretaine, to Bedford is an interim route, with on-road sections and also currently a diversion because of subsidence over one section. The final route will be built with the Wixams development. Figure 3.1 shows the current route of the western part of the cycle path. Approval dated: December 2012 9 46 Version Number: 1
Figure 3.1: National Route 51 Cycle Path Source: Central Bedfordshire Council 3.3.2 The Marston Vale Local Area Transport Plan (LATP) identifies that to date, very little of the cycle network has been developed and major trip generators remain poorly served e.g. Cranfield University and Science Park, Millbrook Proving Ground. Where it exists, cycling infrastructure is frequently piecemeal and coherent destination signage is largely none existent. The lack of maintenance of existing cycle tracks, in particular seasonal vegetation clearance, is also an issue. 3.3.3 In looking to improve the local cycle/walking infrastructure within the surrounding area of Cranfield campus the LATP identifies the following improvements for the cycling network: Reducing the volume and speed of traffic through town and village centres and throughout residential areas through the introduction of 20 mph limits and appropriate traffic and speed control measures Allowing shared use of lightly trafficked footways within towns and alongside fast rural roads Securing agreement from landowners to add permissive cycling rights on footpaths Constructing new cycle links and cut throughs within towns where these afford cyclists an advantage Signposting the likely presence of cyclists on rural roads Provision of secure cycle parking at destinations Engineering measures to give cyclists greater protection/priority at junctions and crossing points Approval dated: December 2012 10 46 Version Number: 1
3.3.4 Walking and cycling are potential options for members of staff living within reasonable walking or cycling distance of the campus, however due to the lack of complete cycle/walking footpaths in the local area many choose to drive due to safety concerns. Figure 3.2 shows the distribution of staff living within 0.5, 1, 2.5, 5 and 7.5 km. Figures 3.3 and 3.4 define the 2km and 5km walking and cycling catchments of the University (these represent a 25 minute walk or cycle ride respectively). Figure 3.2: Distribution of staff living in local area (Source: Ian Truckell of NSRI) Approval dated: December 2012 11 46 Version Number: 1
Figure 3.3: Walking Catchment Approval dated: December 2012 12 46 Version Number: 1
Figure 3.4: Cycling Catchment Approval dated: December 2012 13 46 Version Number: 1
3.3.5 All of the students living on the residential part of the University site are within walking and cycling distance of the campus. There is accommodation for 1500 students and dependants on campus. This significantly improves the accessibility of the site, as approximately half of the total student population are able to walk or cycle to teaching and research facilities on the academic part of the site. 3.3.6 There are also many general facilities on site, such as the University community centre and medical centre, alongside social, recreation and sports facilities, which helps make the campus more self-contained. The availability of these facilities on site reduces the need for students and staff to travel away from the site during the day. 3.4 Rail and Coach 3.4.1 For the majority of University Students and Staff, the Milton Keynes Central Railway Station offers the greatest attraction in terms of rail travel, with an average of 8 services to/from central London (Euston Station) each hour. This railway station is located 7 miles south west of Cranfield campus and is reachable by a regular bus service from the University. Figure 3.5: Milton Keynes Central Station 3.4.2 Another key local railway station is located at Bedford, which also provides fast and frequent links into Luton Airport, Gatwick and London (St Pancras/Kings Cross/Eurostar). An alternative major transport hub is Milton Keynes Coachway which offers regular long distance coach services to cities, towns and airports on the M1 corridor, including Luton, Heathrow and Gatwick airports. The Coachway is situated on the A509 road close to Junction 14 of the M1 on the eastern edge of Milton Keynes and accessible from the campus by public bus or taxi. 3.5 Public Bus 3.5.1 Bus services 52, 45, 61 and 62 stop at the Cranfield campus and the adjacent Technology Park. A summary of these services is shown below in Table 3.1. Approval dated: December 2012 14 46 Version Number: 1
Table 3.1 Existing Bus Services serving Cranfield campus Operator Bus Route Monday -Friday Saturday Sunday First Bus Last Bus Frequency Service Service Stagecoach in Bedford 52 Bedford - Cranfield University 7:21 19:20 60 mins Yes No Grant Palmer 45 1 Milton Keynes Cranfield University 7:47 18:55 60 mins Yes No Soul Brothers 61 Bedford- Cranfield University 7:50 18.34 2 x day No No Soul Brothers Milton Keynes 62 2 - Cranfield University 7.25 18.25 Varies but approx. 90 mins Yes Reduced service Source: Travel Line 1 First and last bus starts and ends Flitwick 2 Includes Newport Pagnell 9 to 5.30 commuters Note the timings are approximate. Much more detail can be found on the University Intranet and Bus Company and Local Authority web sites 3.5.2 The bus service to Bedford, and from the University, is Stagecoach 52 route, which runs between Cranfield University and Bedford Bus Station via Marston Moretaine and Kempston. The service operates hourly each way (Monday to Saturday) and provides a viable commuter service to staff, and for students wishing to reach Bedford during the day. The journey to/from Cranfield University to Bedford takes approximately 45 minutes. 3.5.3 The Grant Palmer 45 service provides a link to the major draw of Milton Keynes, Milton Keynes Rail Station and Milton Keynes Coachway. The service operates every 60 minutes during the week and on Saturdays but only operates until around 7pm in the evening. The journey to/from Cranfield University to central Milton Keynes takes approximately 30 minutes. 3.5.4 Due to the location of the University and the limited accessibility offered by the local public bus system, the University has previously tendered a coach contract to bring staff and students into work from the Bedford area. Following this commuter service, the coach then remained on site to take students to Milton Keynes bus and train stations and the shopping centre and back again. This service operated four times a day and then returned staff and students back to Bedford. 3.5.5 Since September 27 th 2012 the University coach service has been replaced with two new public bus services operated by Souls Brothers (Services 61 and 62). This change marks the University s intentions to move away from operating an exclusive University service and instead to create a collaborative service with local service providers. Already the frequency of service is an improvement on the previous arrangement. Approval dated: December 2012 15 46 Version Number: 1
3.5.6 The University is making a contribution to the 61 and 62 services which allows Soul Brothers to offer discounted fares for Staff, Students and their families. 3.5.7 The above services provide coverage to the key local population centres and also provide linkages into potential interchange points. However, the multi-stop nature of the services, limited routes and their existing timetables make them less attractive than the private car for the majority of University staff and students. The University will review the current arrangement with Soul Brothers and will aim to go out to formal tender next year to improve the bus services further. This may include other routes such as Flitwick to Newport Pagnell as well as the current Bedford to Milton Keynes route. 3.5.8 The Marston Vale LATP identifies that discussions have been opened by Cranfield Parish Council with Milton Keynes and Arriva for creating an effective service linking Cranfield to Milton Keynes which would come into effect in 2013 and might involve the creation of an express commuter service to Milton Keynes Station. 3.6 Efficient Use of Private Cars 3.6.1 Car share is something the University has been promoting for some time. This includes a priority parking scheme with car share groups allowed to park in priority parking spaces before 10 am (after which they are available for visitors). Currently there are some 44 car share spaces and over 80 car share groups. 3.6.2 The University is also signed up to Liftshare.com a national online car share database which facilitates people to find others in their local area or using the same route willing to share car use. The University has a specific log in at www.liftshare.com/sub/2497 3.6.3 The provision of electric charging points has been considered for the campus. However this has been put back given the current lack of demand, uncertainties about the best type of charging point and the availability of suitable space. This will be kept under review. Approval dated: December 2012 16 46 Version Number: 1
4 Staff and Student Engagement 4.1.1 To ensure the Travel Plan is relevant to staff and students, and the transport issues they experience, a Travel Working Group was established and a number of engagement exercises have been undertaken to help steer the future direction of the Travel Plan. Key outputs from these engagements include a Travel Opportunities SWOT, Staff and Student Travel Survey and relevant results of the Student Satisfaction Survey. The key findings from these outputs are detailed below. 4.2 Travel Plan Working Group 4.2.1 This was established in 2011 to begin the drafting of a new Travel Plan to replace the previous one produced in 2006. The Group included representatives from Residences, Schools, Service Departments and Students. Early on it was identified that bus services and the need to gather data on current travel patterns were going to be priority areas. Both would need addressing if the Travel Plan was to have any credibility. 4.2.2 A Bus Working Group was established to begin to plan improvements in the Bus services which the University was paying for. Meetings were also held with existing Bus users to gain feedback on the services. 4.2.3 A Travel Survey Working Group was established to develop and deliver a Travel Survey for Staff and Students. This was to supplement information which was already available from the annual Student Satisfaction Survey. 4.2.4 Meetings were also held with cyclists to determine the design and best locations for cycle shelters and hoops. 4.3 Student Satisfaction Survey 4.3.1 The Student satisfaction survey is conducted annually and aims to identify where the University is succeeding but also where improvements could be made. In relation to transport, the student satisfaction survey 2012 identifies that travel to nearby towns of Milton Keynes and Bedford for shopping and rail links to London is important for students living on campus and this is particularly the case at weekends. 4.3.2 Of all the University facility and service areas, 2012 survey respondents rated transport services as the most important yet the least satisfying. The survey identifies that all areas of transport services were important to students. The most important areas were the weekend and weekday bus services to Milton Keynes and access to airports and mainline train stations, 96% of respondents rated these areas as important or very important. Approval dated: December 2012 17 46 Version Number: 1
4.3.3 Despite the bus service being rated the most important issue; only 46% of respondents were satisfied with the University weekday bus and 35% were dissatisfied. In regard to the University weekend bus 40% of respondents were satisfied and 41% were dissatisfied. Only 21% of respondents were satisfied with access to airports and mainline train stations, whilst 56% were dissatisfied. In addition, 59% of Cranfield campus students who commented on transport services called for more services. 4.3.4 Many students live in Cranfield Village which is within walking and cycling distance but the survey identifies that students would like to see a dedicated footpath due to the local roads being busy and potentially dangerous during rush hour. Just over half of Cranfield campus students (52%) stated that they would use a path to Cranfield Village regularly (at least weekly) if one were available. A further 28% would also use it less often than weekly. In addition, just over a third (36%) of Cranfield campus students felt that such a path would have been likely to affect their decision on where to live during their time at the University. 4.3.5 Other popular locations for students to live off campus are in Bedford or Milton Keynes. These students are very dependent on bus services being available into the evening as well as during normal working hours. 4.4 Staff and Student Travel Survey 2012 4.4.1 A campus wide travel survey was conducted in Spring 2012 (an example of survey form can be seen in Appendix A) to identify the base level of mode share for Staff and Students across the campus as a whole. Staff response to the survey was high, with 485 participants (37% of staff working at Cranfield campus) however the student response was much lower, with 142 participants (less than 5% of students attending Cranfield campus) and hence base level mode shares for students may need to be readjusted, based on future travel surveys, in order to accurately track progress of the plan. 4.4.2 A summary of the key results of the travel survey are detailed below: Table 4.1: Travel Survey Mode Share Results 2012 Survey Data Staff Students Car alone 76% 30% Car share 14% 10% Motorbike 1% 0% Bus 3% 19% Cycling 4% 10% Walking 1% 27% Other 1% 3% TOTAL 100% 100% Approval dated: December 2012 18 46 Version Number: 1
4.4.3 Table 4.1 identifies that there are clear differences between how students and staff travel to Cranfield campus. The staff mode share indicates a very high reliance on single occupancy car with 76% of staff surveyed travelling to work this way. However it should also be noted that 14% currently car share which indicates the current University car share initiative has been successful. 4% also cycle to work and 3% use the bus service. 4.4.4 Student s mode share indicates a much more varied mode choice with only 30% of students travelling to the campus by single occupancy car. 27% of students walk to/from campus (which likely relates to the students which live on or near to campus) and 19% of students use the bus service. 10% currently cycle and 10% car share. 4.4.5 Figure 8 identifies that the majority of staff and students (74%) are experiencing traffic problems at Cranfield campus, both in relation to parking but also with general traffic congestion. Both these issues could be helped through the Travel Plan. Figure 4.1: What do you consider to be the main traffic problem? 12% 26% No problems encountered Parking problems on site 22% Queuing traffic to access or exit the campus Traffic congestion 7% 33% other 4.4.6 During the summer 2011, the Central Bedfordshire Planning Department turned down planning permission to convert 1/1a East Road (the former crèche) into four studio flats for students because of a lack of available car parking spaces on Cranfield campus and congestion in the surrounding roads. This is the first time that refusal for expansion of accommodation units had been made at Cranfield on the basis of not enough available car parking provision. This recent experience and the results of the travel survey identify that parking has become a much greater priority for the University to resolve. Approval dated: December 2012 19 46 Version Number: 1
Figure 4.2 - What would encourage you to use more sustainable travel modes? 4.4.7 Figure 4.2 summarises the key transport improvements sort by staff and students in relation to the key sustainable modes of car share, cycle, bus and walking. These findings back up those of the SWOT analysis with key improvements being requested in regard to better walk and cycle paths, more frequent and direct bus services and additional help finding a car share partner. 4.5 Travel Opportunities SWOT 4.5.1 To help drive the direction of Travel Plan, a SWOT analysis was undertaken with key stakeholders to identify the Strengths, Weaknesses and Opportunities for travel to/from Cranfield campus. A summary of these findings is set out below: Strengths: Sizable number of students living on campus A good range of facilities and services on campus Ability to link with employees at Cranfield Technology Park Campus located in an attractive rural environment which is still within one hours commute of London and easy access to the M1, A1 and mainline train services for the North and Midlands Weaknesses: Semi-rural location of the campus which can deter commuters from walking No dedicated cycle /walk route from Cranfield Village to the University Current bus services limited outside of peak hours Common reliance on car No visible Travel Plan champion in the past / Lack of Travel Plan publicity in the past Approval dated: December 2012 20 46 Version Number: 1
Rural location can encourage a dependence on car Lack of funding for Infrastructure measures Opportunities: Ability to build on current car sharing already occurring at the University Work with bus operator to improve service to University and Technology Park Develop a full cycle walk route from Cranfield Village to Cranfield campus Work in conjunction with occupiers to Cranfield Technology Park to boost Travel Plan Measures Consider flexible working for staff Consideration of car parking charges to fund Travel Plan measures Threats: Lack of student and staff take up Increase in bus fares and reductions in Local Authority bus subsidy Changes to parking availability Concerns about road safety 4.5.2 The SWOT demonstrates that the rural location of Cranfield campus poses key challenges in regard to a lack of regular public transport linking the campus to the larger urban centres of Milton Keynes and Bedford. This results in a heavy reliance on car use which is not helped by a lack of formal cycle and walking routes to the local centre of Cranfield Village and a general feeling that the local roads pose safety issues to cycle use. 4.5.3 In comparison, the key opportunities identified by the SWOT relate to improving bus connectivity to the wider area, the ability to use flexible working to enable staff to consider other forms of transport to the private car and a drive to improve cycle and walking safety on the local roads by identifying specific cycling and walking path improvements in the local area. 4.6 Summary 4.6.1 The staff and student engagement detailed within this section identifies a number of opportunities for the development of this Travel Plan going forward. The results show that there have already been successes in regard to student uptake of bus services and Staff/ Student use of the current car share scheme. However, as indicated by Figure 4.2 and the SWOT, many campus users are currently not aware of the transport opportunities offered at the university and this could be improved by developing the Travel Plan Coordinator role to further promote and lead the Travel Plan among staff and students with the engagement of Corporate Communications. In addition, key opportunities identified across the engagement methods include: Improvements to walk and cycle accessibility within the campus and between the campus and Cranfield Village Increased frequency and more direct bus service options Increased awareness and promotion of the car share scheme Inter working with the neighbouring Technology Park to increase shared transport options More flexible working opportunities for University staff Approval dated: December 2012 21 46 Version Number: 1
5 Travel Plan Measures and Actions 5.1 Introduction 5.1.1 This section of the Travel Plan outlines the measures that will be implemented, to ensure that a variety of suitable, easily accessible alternatives to single-occupancy car travel are available and attractive to staff and students accessing Cranfield campus. With these proposed measures in place, Cranfield University will support national and local sustainability objectives, as well as contributing towards the university s Carbon Management Plan and commitment to ISO14001. 5.1.2 To encourage sustainable travel amongst the staff and students located at Cranfield campus the measures used must be considered, attractive and convenient. Whilst every effort has been made to include measures suitable for the centre s location and operation, the initiatives identified are by no means exhaustive. Travel Plans are expected to evolve in response to new travel and transport issues that may arise, and as such, future changes may require a review of current measures. Measures to be implemented at Cranfield campus are set out within the remainder of this chapter. 5.2 Marketing and Promotion 5.2.1 A key element missing from the implementation of University s previous Travel Plan (2006) was the promotion of its initiatives and presence within the University. To promote and market the sustainable travel opportunities it is essential that staff and students are provided with information on the travel modes available at Cranfield campus, and this is particularly the case for staff and students newly arriving at the university. Going forward, staff and students will be made aware of sustainable travel opportunities through the following: 5.2.2 Sustainable Travel Packs / Travel Plan Web Portal 5.2.2.1 When staff/students receive confirmation of employment/study at Cranfield University, they will also receive a sustainable travel information pack. This will introduce them to the Cranfield campus Travel Plan and include information on public bus and rail timetables as well as cycle routes and car sharing opportunities. The pack will be talked through with staff members as part of their introduction process to encourage and support the use of the sustainable travel information provided to them for their daily commute. 5.2.2.2 Existing staff and students will be introduced to the revised Travel Plan through direction to a new Travel Plan portal on the University Intranet which will set out the aims and objectives of the plan, maintain up to date public transport timetable information and detail upcoming Travel Plan promotions and events. Details of the Travel Plan Coordinator will also be provided should additional information on travel be required. 5.2.3 Staff Personal Travel Planning Advice 5.2.3.1 Travel planning advice will be made available for staff and students at Cranfield University campus. Details of this service will be included within the sustainable travel information packs provided to new staff and promoted to existing staff on the intranet Travel Plan portal and through Corporate Communications. This will provide staff members with travel information for Approval dated: December 2012 22 46 Version Number: 1
their commuting journey. This could include specific bus and train service route details, if viable, or provide assistance in locating a car share partner. 5.2.4 Sustainable Travel Notifications 5.2.4.1 Posters and information will be supplied for existing notice boards in areas of high footfall, such as the main reception areas and staff/student communal areas. Larger copies of the information detailed within the sustainable travel information pack, and intranet Travel Plan portal will be provided and updated when necessary. This will help raise the profile of the Travel Plan around campus and provide details of the Travel Plan Coordinator should staff and students seek additional assistance. Any current local or national sustainable travel events and promotions will also be advertised via these notice boards. Information displayed via notice boards will also assist with promoting sustainable travel to conference delegates and other visitors. 5.3 Measures to Promote Public Transport Use 5.3.1 The Travel Plan recognises the importance of public transport in providing not just a sustainable method of travel to and from the campus but also vital access to Milton Keynes and Bedford for students who do not have access to a car or who simply wish to socialise within these larger centres in the evenings and weekends. To ensure that public transport is made as attractive an option as possible, and meets the needs of staff and students at the University, the following measures will be used to promote and improve bus access: 5.3.2 Bus Working Group 5.3.2.1 As a result of the working group the University has established a pilot arrangement with Souls Coaches to provide discounts for staff and students on two new public bus services which provide similar journey times to the previous shuttle bus services to Bedford and Milton Keynes, but with some additional journeys to make this a more frequent and useful service for Staff and Students. If this is successful then the University may go out to tender on the service and enter into a longer term arrangement with public bus operators. The aim will be to link bus routes to where staff live and also to ensure there is joined up thinking on areas to target when finding landlords for student accommodation. 5.3.2.2 Going forward, the Travel Plan Coordinator will seek to ensure an improved bus service is maintained which meets the needs of more members of the campus community, creates good will amongst the student body and addresses the environmental issues associated with a current campus dependence on single occupancy car. As part of this a Bus User Group (BUG) will be established to ensure there is on-going feedback on bus services. 5.3.3 Ongoing Discussions with Public Transport Operators 5.3.3.1 In line with Cranfield Parish s proposals to seek improved local bus services (as identified within the Marston Vale LATP) and the University's goal to collaborate with public bus operators, the Travel Plan Coordinator will seek to take part in discussions with local operators to improve public transport access to Cranfield campus. As a major employer within Central Bedfordshire and Cranfield, the Travel Plan Coordinator will seek to work in Approval dated: December 2012 23 46 Version Number: 1
partnership with the Council, Local Parish and bus operators to achieve mutually beneficial public transport improvements within the local area. 5.3.4 Public Transport Information 5.3.4.1 Staff and Students will be provided with timetable, route and fares information for local bus and rail services to ensure they are able to consider these options for journeys to and from work/study. This information will be distributed within the sustainable travel information packs, at main receptions and via the intranet Travel Plan portal. 5.4 Measures to Promote Walking and Cycling 5.4.1 The Travel Plan recognises the importance of promoting walking and cycling, but also the current barriers through a lack of a full walk/cycleway between Cranfield Village and Cranfield campus. The construction of such infrastructure is a mid-term aim for both the University and the Local Authority, and discussions will continue to ensure this is achieved. The road and path layout of the campus itself is also something which will be developed in the medium term. In the shorter term, to ensure that staff and students are encouraged to walk and cycle within the campus and to the nearby villages, where viable, the following measures to promote walking and cycling will include: 5.4.2 Walk/ Cycling Information 5.4.2.1 Pedestrian and cycle route maps of the campus, and the local area will be provides to new staff and students via travel information packs, and to existing staff and students, via the Intranet Travel Plan portal and promoted via Corporate Communications. 5.4.3 Cycle Parking and Way Finding Improvements 5.4.3.1 As part of the generation of a cycle and walking route map, current signposting and cycle parking will be reviewed within Cranfield campus to identify a programme of improvements in regard to ensuring sufficient cycle parking is available and way-finding around the campus (by walking and cycling) is clear. Identified improvements to way-finding will be coordinated by Estates to ensure all measures are compatible with any wider University plans for signage changes. Beyond this initial action, cycle parking will be monitored as part on an annual travel survey to ensure that parking meets demand. 5.4.4 Changing Facilities Audit 5.4.4.1 The Travel Plan Coordinator will audit the University s current changing facilities and where applicable will seek to provide additional lockers for storage of equipment and showers/changing rooms. The promotion of the location and availability of changing facilities will enable staff and students to consider walking, cycling or using public transport without needing to transport items on a daily basis, or to worry about having to shower or change clothing following their journey. Approval dated: December 2012 24 46 Version Number: 1
5.4.5 Cycle User Group 5.4.5.1 A Cycle User Group (CUG) will be established for Cranfield campus. The CUG will comprise of Staff and students who are interested in taking forward initiatives to promote and facilitate cycling in and around the campus. The CUG will provide a forum for sharing information on cycle routes, cycling best practice, and to address any issues of concern regarding cycling or cycle safety. 5.4.5.2 The CUG will also enable less experienced cyclists to interact with established cyclists and obtain information, guidance and potentially a cycling buddy to accompany them on journey to or from the campus. In combination with the CUG, a Bike Doctor will aim to be organised on a regular basis to visit the campus to service bicycles and provide advice on cycle maintenance. 5.4.6 Cycle to Work Scheme 5.4.7 The University previously offered staff the opportunity to participate in a cycle to work purchase scheme (www.cyclescheme.co.uk) which provided a tax efficient way to purchase bicycles. However due to changes by HM Revenue and Customs this is no longer viable for our organisation. Should these tax arrangements change to allow the scheme to continue the Travel Plan Coordinator will reinitiate the scheme and promote it internally with staff. 5.5 Business Travel Measures/ Working Practices 5.5.1 Figure 3.2 identified the origin location of University Staff. A review of working practices can have a positive impact in encouraging sustainable travel behaviour and each University departments will be encouraged to consider the following working practices for staff, where applicable to their job role: Flexible Working Hours: Where operational requirements permit, flexible working hours will be promoted amongst staff. This can help to ensure that those wishing to travel by public transport are not deterred by small conflicts between when such services operate and when they are required to commence work. Where such conflicts do occur, and cannot be resolved, this may lead to a higher level of car dependency. Home Working: Although potentially only suitable for a small number of staff within the University, home working can reduce the overall number of journeys to and from the site. Video and Audio Conferencing: Such facilities can assist University staff to hold virtual meetings rather than travelling for some business journeys. This will be particularly beneficial where overseas travel is normally involved. 5.6 Long Term Cycle / Walk Infrastructure Improvements 5.6.1 As previously identified, the Travel Plan recognises there are current cycle / walk barriers due to a lack of a full walk/cycleway between Cranfield Village and Cranfield campus. The construction of such infrastructure is a mid-term aim for both the University and the Local Approval dated: December 2012 25 46 Version Number: 1
Authority and to aid these discussions Figure 5.1 identifies options for local cycle/walk route development in the future. 5.6.2 The most likely route development in the short term is an extension of the existing cycle route (a) on Figure 5.1which is due to be extended along the road to the south of Cranfield Airfield (b) as far as the road to Stilliters Farm. The council had been planning to then carry on around the road into the campus (option c). The existing part of the cycle path (along High Street) has been funded out of S106 monies associated with a housing development in Cranfield (Home Farm) and further monies from this development will pay for the extension towards Stilliters Farm and eventually via route (a) when further funding becomes available. However there is not sufficient funding at present for this. A shorter route would involve cutting through by the side of Martell House (option d), although this would still require funding to come forward to be progressed. A short term temporary option maybe to utilise the road up to Stilliters Farm and then to introduce a permissive cycle route (e) along the edge of the airfield connecting into the road by Martell House. This would be low cost as there is already some hard surfacing, the main cost would be fencing and signage. As a permissive route its status can be reversed and option (d) developed as a more permanent route when the future expansion of the Technology Park goes ahead. 5.6.3 Another opportunity for a cycle path between Cranfield University and Cranfield Village is for the route to follow the Highway (College Road onto Crawley Road) around the north of Cranfield Airfield. This would be a shorter route for cyclists coming in from the northern end of the village; however it is a much longer route overall than the route to the south of the airfield and funding is currently unidentified. This is unlikely to be developed in the next five years. 5.6.4 An existing public footpath currently exists around the north of the airfield. This is not suitable for cycling and is unlit, which makes the path less ideal for walking in the winter. However, the recent installation of a new fence around this part of the Airfield has helped to define exactly where the footpath goes, which makes the path easier to navigate. Discussions are on-going with the local council to see how this path could be improved. Approval dated: December 2012 26 46 Version Number: 1
Figure 5.1- Potential Walk/Cycle Routes Between Cranfield University & Cranfield Village 5.7 Measures to Promote Efficient Car Use 5.7.1 The focus of the Travel Plan is to ensure that staff and student have sufficient information and opportunities available to them, to enable them to use sustainable modes of transport. However, where staff and students have no other option but to use their car to access the campus a range of measures are proposed to ensure this car use is as efficient as possible. Approval dated: December 2012 27 46 Version Number: 1
5.7.2 Car Share Database 5.7.2.1 The University currently operates a Car Share Scheme which was set up as part of the previous Travel Plan (2006) and is operated by Liftshare. The staff and students travel surveyed indicates that the service is being used, and this is further encouraged by the University for business trips, by allowing an increased mileage rate for staff carrying passengers to off-site business meetings. However, within the Travel Plan workshop with key stakeholders it was also identified that many people did not know that the car share scheme existed and how they could join it. Based on this feedback the following measures will be utilised to further promote car sharing between staff and students: Review and assignment of dedicated car sharer parking spaces in prominent and convenient locations around the Cranfield Campus. Investigation into the provision of a Guaranteed Ride Home emergency taxi service to be provided by the University should registered car sharers have to leave unexpectedly and resulting in their lift share companion not having a ride home. Ensuring that all new staff and students to Cranfield campus are aware of the current Car Share Website prior joining the University. Staff and Students can then consider the viability and potential of sharing future commuting journeys with a colleague or student on a daily or part weekly basis. This will also be promoted on the new Travel Plan portal. Promotional campaign to make staff aware of the dedicated Cranfield University Liftshare website (www.liftshare.com/sub2497) run by Liftshare. 5.7.3 Car Share Promotional Events 5.7.3.1 To boost interest further in car sharing, the Travel Plan Coordinator will arrange a number of lunchtime staff and student events, advertised through existing University communication routes, throughout the term, to promote membership to the car share database. These events will also promote car sharing in general and encourage the uptake of any informal private car sharing opportunities amongst staff and students. Figure 2 identifies the home locations of University Staff and shows the potential for car sharing. 5.7.4 Car Parking Management 5.7.4.1 The need to manage current parking availability at Cranfield campus is vital given its finite supply and the need to accommodate staff and students who are residents of Cranfield campus. In addition, should the University want to build more accommodation or alter any of the existing houses into houses of multiple occupancy, further planning requests (as occurred in 2011) could be refused on the grounds of lack of car parking. To directly combat this issue a campus wide review of car parking provision and management is proposed. 5.8 Travel Plan Partnership - Technology Park 5.8.1 Cranfield University will use existing close working relationships through the University s Corporate Relations team with businesses located on the adjacent Technology Park, with the aim of forming a Travel Plan Partnership. Within the partnership the University will seek to work with other major employers (for example Nissan) to increase the benefits of measures Approval dated: December 2012 28 46 Version Number: 1
such as the Car Sharing database as well as working together to resolve any common travel issues affecting the local area (such as seeking to improve local bus services). The Travel Plan Coordinator will help organise the Travel Plan Partnership in conjunction with Corporate Relations and explore potential efficiencies and economies of scale in the joint delivery of future Travel Plan measures with local employers. 5.9 Summary 5.9.1 The table below outlines the Travel Plan measures that will be adopted by the University, in order to work towards achieving the Travel Plan aims and objectives. Table 5.1 Summary of Cranfield campus Travel Plan Measures Travel Plan Opportunities Marketing and Promotion of Travel Plan Promoting Public Transport Use Travel Plan Measure Sustainable travel welcome packs for both new staff and students/ Travel Plan portal to promote to existing campus community Sustainable travel notifications in key locations University Bus User Group (BUG) Ongoing discussions with operators Public transport information to staff and students through welcome packs and Travel Plan portal Walking and cycling route maps issued to staff and students Promoting Cycling and Walking Cycle parking and way finding improvements Changing facilities audit Cycle User Group (CUG) Improved local cycle/walk infrastructure Promoting Efficient Business Travel / Working Practices Promoting Efficient Car Use Joint Working with Local Employers Flexible working practices for staff Video and Audio conference facilities to reduce business travel Car Share databases promoted to staff and students Car Share promotional events Car Parking Management Harness our close working relationships with other local employers, particularly on the Cranfield Technology Park, in order to form a Travel Plan Partnership to jointly solve transport-related issues and the jointly deliver measures Approval dated: December 2012 29 46 Version Number: 1
6 Travel Plan Management & Delivery 6.1 Introduction 6.1.1 This Travel Plan will be an evolving document that takes into account the changing nature of the Cranfield campus, its staff, its students and their travel patterns over time. Active implementation of the Travel Plan is therefore the most important factor in ensuring the Travel Plan is a success not only for the University but also for its staff and student body. The Travel Plan must not only have a key person nominated to take it forward (who has the time and dedication to do so) but also have higher level management support so that the measures can be implemented efficiently. The Travel Plan must be seen as effortless for staff and students to engage with, and therefore there must be a clear focal point of contact to enable this to happen. 6.1.2 6.1.3 The management of the Travel Plan, going forward, is summarised below and is focused around the development of the Travel Plan Coordinator role. This will take forward the Travel Plan, deliver its measures, continually promote it and ensure annual monitoring, to provide a quality audit of the Travel Plan s impact and success in reaching its aims and objectives. 6.2 Overall Responsibility Board for Energy & Environment 6.2.1 It is recommended that the Board for Energy & Environment (BEE) take overall responsibility for ensuring the implementation of the Cranfield campus Travel Plan and report to the University Executive accordingly. However, it is also recommended that BEE ensure that the Travel Plan Coordinator role is developed and sufficiently resourced to manage the day to day aspects of the plan. Full details of the Travel Plan Coordinator, and the requirements of the person undertaking this role is indicated below. 6.3 Day-To-Day Responsibility Travel Plan Coordinator 6.3.1 The day-to-day responsibility for the implementation of the Cranfield campus Travel Plan will lie with a specifically nominated Travel Plan Coordinator. The complexities and sensitivities of travel issues at Cranfield demand a focal point. The benefits to staff and student well-being as well as environmental improvement will justify this resource. This role will require the passion and dedication for the Travel Plan to become a central part of Cranfield campus and to remain relevant and visible to staff and students. 6.3.2 The key traits of a successful Travel Plan Coordinator include: Drive, determination and passion for the role Ability to liaise with all departments of the University Time to keep the Travel Plan up-to-date Ability to coordinate marketing and promotion Approval dated: December 2012 30 46 Version Number: 1
Innovative in ideas to keep the Travel Plan relevant and active to the Cranfield campus community 6.3.3 The Travel Plan Coordinator s role key responsibilities will include: Overseeing the implementation and development of the Travel Plan Obtaining and maintaining commitment to the Plan, and fostering a sense of ownership, from senior managers, staff and students Administering the car sharing scheme and travel-related information to be published via the University intranet Disseminating information regarding means of access for staff, students and visitors to the Cranfield site Creating and updating Travel Plan information on a new intranet Travel Plan portal Liaising with Central Bedfordshire Council, Bedford Borough Council, Milton Keynes Unitary Authority, local public transport operators and the Travel Plan Coordinator at the adjacent Technology Park Acting as the main point of contact on travel-related matters for staff and students Coordinating the marketing and promotion of the Travel Plan and travel initiatives in conjunction with Corporate Communications. Administering the monitoring and review programme throughout the lifespan of the Travel Plan and reporting on progress towards meeting the Travel Plan targets Become the face and driving force behind the plan going forward 6.3.4 The Travel Plan Coordinator will sit within the existing Estates department but will also report to BEE on the on-going progress and development of the Travel Plan, against its aims, objectives and targets. This will both establish a formal internal review procedure of the Travel Plan and allow for management approval in the decision making process on the funding and implementation of any further Travel measures. For clarity Figure 6.1 identifies the recommended location of the Travel Plan Coordinator within the University management structure. Approval dated: December 2012 31 46 Version Number: 1
Figure 6.1 Recommended Management Structure for Travel Plan Delivery Approval dated: December 2012 32 46 Version Number: 1