CRANFIELD UNIVERSITY TRAVEL PLAN 2012 - 2017
Cranfield Campus
December 2012, updated June 2016
Approval dated: December 2012, June 2016
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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
Approval dated: December 2012, June 2016
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
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CRANFIELD UNIVERSITY TRAVEL PLAN 2012 - 2017
Cranfield Campus
December 2012, updated June 2016
Client
Cranfield University
Cranfield Campus,
Cranfield,
Bedfordshire,
MK43 0AL
United Kingdom
Consultant
WSP UK Ltd
66-68 Hills Road
Cambridge
CB2 1LA
United Kingdom
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
Document Title
Document no
Version no
Person responsible
Approved by
Date approved
Review date
Effective Date
Standards Reference
Approval
dated: December 2012, June 2016
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Travel Plan
CU-ENV-PLAN_01
1.1
Energy & Environment Manager
Board for Energy & Environment
December 2012 (v1.0) and June 2016 (v1.1)
June 2017
December 2012
ISO14001-ENV-PLAN_01
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Table of Contents
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Introduction ............................................................................. 5
Aims, Objectives and Benefits of a Travel Plan ................... 7
Sustainable Travel Opportunities .......................................... 9
Staff and Student Engagement ............................................ 18
Travel Plan Measures and Actions ...................................... 23
Travel Plan Management & Delivery.................................... 31
Monitoring & Targets ............................................................ 34
Figure 1.1
Site Location Plan
Figure 2.1
Cranfield Travel Plan Benefits
Figure 3.1
National Route 51 Cycle Path
Figure 3.2
Distribution of staff living in local area
Figure 3.3
Walking Isochrones from Site
Figure 3.4
Cycling Isochrones from Site
Figure 3.5
Milton Keynes Central Station
Figure 4.1
What do you consider to be the main traffic problem?
Figure 4.2
What would encourage you to use more sustainable travel modes?
Figure 5.1
Potential Walk/Cycle Routes between Cranfield University & Cranfield Village
Figure 6.1
Recommended Management Structure for Travel Plan Delivery
Table 3.1
Existing Bus Services serving Cranfield campus
Table 4.1
Travel Survey Mode Share Results
Table 5.1
Summary of Cranfield campus Travel Plan Measures
Table 7.1
Initial Output Targets
Appendix A - Staff and Student Travel Survey Form - 2012
Appendix B – Review of Progress - 2016
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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
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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.
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2
2.1
Aims, Objectives and Benefits of a Travel Plan
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:
2.3
■
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 CO2 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
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:
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Figure 2.1: Cranfield Travel Plan Benefits
Wider Community
•
•
•
•
Reduced local congestion
Helps create an attractive local environment
Reduced pollutants and improved air quality
Improved travel choices
Staff / Students / Visitors
University
•
Improved travel choices
•
Reduced car parking demand
•
More attractive campus
•
Release car parking space
•
Improved access
•
Helps in securing planning permission
•
Reduced travel cost
•
More attractive campus
•
Reduced journey times
•
Healthier staff and students
•
Support for environmental policies
•
Reduced carbon emissions
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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.
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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
■
Provide an increase in dropped curbs along key pedestrian routes to allow wheelchair
and pushchair access easier
■
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
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■
Engineering measures to give cyclists greater protection/priority at junctions and crossing
points
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)
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Figure 3.3: Walking Catchment
Figure 3.4: Cycling Catchment
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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
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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.
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Table 3.1– Existing Bus Services serving Cranfield campus
Monday -Friday
First Bus Last Bus
Frequency
Saturday
Service
Sunday
Service
7:21
19:20
60 mins
Yes
No
Milton Keynes
–
Cranfield
University
7:47
18:55
60 mins
Yes
No
BedfordCranfield
University
7:50
18.34
2 x day
No
No
7.25
18.25
Varies but
approx.
90 mins
Yes
Reduced
service
Operator
Bus
Route
Stagecoach
in Bedford
52
Bedford
Cranfield
University
Grant
Palmer
451
Soul
Brothers
61
Soul
Brothers
622
-
Milton Keynes
Cranfield
University
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 27th 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.
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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.
3.7
Disabled Access
3.7.1 The campus reviewed and implemented many improvements to disabled car parking and
access to buildings in 2006 to 2009. Car parking in general is well distributed across the campus and
there is disabled car parking close to most buildings. Kerbs were modified where possible to give
easier access routes for wheelchairs.
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3.7.2 The bus stops on campus are not easily accessible either for wheelchair users or people with
vision disabilities. The main bus stop is the other side of a busy main road from the main campus
with no pedestrian road crossing. The bus service mentioned in 3.5.5 utilises existing coaches and
does not provide easy wheelchair access.
3.7.3 The University has a Disability Code of Practice (2009) which states that new buildings are
designed and built to meet the latest standards of provision and that where practical and when
reasonable adjustment is possible to upgrade existing buildings to accommodate disabled employees
and students.
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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’.
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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
Car alone
Car share
Motorbike
Bus
Cycling
Walking
Other
TOTAL
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Staff
76%
14%
1%
3%
4%
1%
1%
100%
Students
30%
10%
0%
19%
10%
27%
3%
100%
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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%
No problems encountered
26%
Parking problems on site
22%
Queuing traffic to access or
exit the campus
Traffic congestion
7%
other
33%
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.
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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
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■
■
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
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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:
5.7.3
■
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.
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
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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
Promoting Cycling and
Walking
Promoting Efficient Business
Travel / Working Practices
Promoting Efficient Car Use
Joint Working with Local
Employers
Approval dated: December 2012, June 2016
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
■
Cycle parking and way finding improvements
■
Changing facilities audit
■
Cycle User Group (CUG)
■
Improved local cycle/walk infrastructure
■
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
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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
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■
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.
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Figure 6.1 – Recommended Management Structure for Travel Plan Delivery
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7
Monitoring & Targets
7.1 Travel Plan Monitoring
7.1.1 Regular monitoring of the Travel Plan is important to understand the changing nature of staff
and student travel habits, and the effectiveness of the Travel Plan measures in working
towards the Travel Plans aims, objectives and targets.
7.1.2 Staff and Students Travel surveys have recently been undertaken and provide a good basis
for on-going monitoring and target setting. It is recommended that regular staff and student
travel surveys continue to be undertaken to provide a regular snapshot of staff commuting
and student travel patterns through a period of five years, where upon the Travel Plan should
be fully reviewed once again. Such monitoring information will be central to establishing how
effective the measures have been in meeting the objectives and targets of the Cranfield
campus Travel Plan. An example of this year’s staff and student Travel Survey can be seen in
Appendix A.
7.1.3 In addition to the Cranfield campus survey, the Travel Plan Coordinator should seek to liaise
with the Travel Plan Coordinator at the Technology Park on the adjacent site to maximise the
opportunities for joint monitoring initiatives between the two sites.
7.2
Travel Plan Targets
7.2.1 To help guide the progress of the Cranfield campus Travel Plan, a number of targets have
been identified, which will be reviewed by the Travel Plan Coordinator on an annual basis.
These targets are divided amongst those relating to delivering outputs and those related to
achieving outcomes.
■
Output Targets – These targets relate to the implementation of the Travel Plan. They will
help to ensure everything remains on course with the delivery of the different measures
contained within this Travel Plan
■
Outcome Targets – These targets relate to the effect of implementing the Travel Planning
measures, and will include for example the proportion of staff and students travelling to
the campus by each mode of transport, and identify how this has been influenced by the
Travel Plan
Output Targets
7.2.2 The following baseline output targets are set out in Table 7.1 and aim to guide the
implementation of the Travel Plan measures:
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Table 7.1 – Initial Output Targets
Travel
Plan
Travel Plan Measure
Opportunities
Travel Plan
Management
Marketing and
Promotion of
Travel Plan
■
■
Appoint a Travel Plan Coordinator
■
Sustainable travel welcome packs for both
new staff and students/ Travel Plan portal
to promote to existing campus community
Sustainable travel notifications using key
communication points
Go out to Tender for Bedford MK bus
service route
■
■
■
Promoting
Efficient Business
Travel / Working
Practices
Joint Working
with Local
Employers
01/04/2013
■
01/09/2013
■
01/10/2013
■
TPC
■
01/04/2013
Establish Bus User Group (BUG)
■
TPC
■
01/04/2013
■
Review Flitwick and Newport Pagnell bus
service route
■
TPC
■
01/04/2013
■
Maintain public transport information on
intranet
Walking and cycling route maps issued to
staff and students
Cycle
parking
and
way
finding
improvements
■
TPC / Comms
■
Ongoing
■
TPC
■
01/10/2013
■
TPC
■
01/06/2013
■
Changing facilities audit
■
TPC
■
01/09/2013
■
Cycle User Group (CUG)
■
TPC
■
01/09/2013
■
Flexible working practises for staff
■
TPC/HR
■
01/09/2013
■
Home working where applicable
■
TPC/HR
■
01/09/2013
■
Video and Audio conference facilities to
reduce business travel
Car Share databases promoted to staff
and students
■
TPC/IT
■
Ongoing
■
TPC
■
01/06/2013
■
Car Share promotional events
■
TPC / Comms
■
01/06/2013
■
Car Parking Management
■
TPC
■
01/03/2014
■
Harnessing the existing 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
■
TPC
Corporate
Relations
■
01/09/2013
■
■
Promoting
Efficient Car Use
■
TPC / Comms
■
Promoting
Cycling and
Walking
Cranfield Board
for Energy &
Environment
Travel
Plan
Coordinator
(TPC)
Date
■
■
Promoting Public
Transport Use
Target
/Trigger
Responsibility
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Outcome Targets
7.2.3 The measures proposed within this Cranfield campus Travel Plan are intended to bring about
a change in the way staff and students travel to/from the campus. Therefore, a SMART target
has been derived to help measure quantifiable progress against the objectives of the Travel
Plan.
7.2.4 The baseline travel survey (undertaken in Spring 2012) has been used as a current baseline
of travel to and from Cranfield campus. This survey identifies the current level of mode share
for staff and students, thus setting a benchmark against which the impact of the Travel Plan
measures can be judged. It should be noted that due to returns from students being low and
this baseline may not be realistic and hence will be updated in subsequent surveys.
7.2.5 In setting targets, comparisons have been made with similar Universities and semi-rural
institutions to identify the levels of realistic mode shift that can be achieved from a high
performing Travel Plan. A five year horizon has been used as many of the measures outlined
in this Travel Plan will take a period of time to fully introduce and, importantly, to bring about
an on-going positive change in staff and student travel patterns. However progress against
this target will be monitored on an annual basis to ensure an on-going evaluation of progress
is possible.
7.2.6 Where progress against the target is falling below trajectory, additional resources and
measures will be considered to ensure the target is reached. If the target is reached before
five years then a more ambitious target will be considered.
7.2.7 Initial outcome mode share targets are set out in Table 7.2:
Table 7.2 – Initial Mode Share Outcome Targets
Car alone
Car share
Motorbike
Bus
Cycling
Walking
Other
TOTAL
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Staff
Current
(2012)
76%
14%
1%
3%
4%
1%
1%
100%
Target
(2017)
■ 68%
■ 17%
■ 1%
■ 6%
■ 6%
■ 1%
■ 1%
■ 100%
Students
Current
(2012)
■ 30%
■ 10%
■ 0%
■ 19%
■ 10%
■ 27%
■ 3%
■ 100%
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Target
(2017)
■ 25%
■ 12%
■ 0
■ 23%
■ 12%
■ 28%
■ 0%
■ 100%
Version Number: 1.1
Appendix A
Staff and Student Travel Survey Form - 2012
Travel Survey 2012
Welcome
The University is currently developing a Green Travel Plan to support its commitment to carbon reduction by
exploring the ways travel choices can be improved on campus over the next five years. The Travel Plan will include
pedestrian and cycle access; rail and car travel; bus services; business travel; student and staff commuting.
You are invited to complete this short survey to put forward your thoughts and comments on the travel issues that
affect you. This feedback will then be used in scoping the Travel Plan and in lobbying local planners to improve travel
choices where appropriate.
The survey is completed anonymously and no one individual will be identified. It is designed to be quick and easy to
complete and should take no longer than 15 minutes. You can, if you wish, save part way through and complete later.
Please note however that once you have clicked on the CONTINUE button at the bottom of each page you cannot
return to review or amend that page.
Travel Survey 2012
Data Protection statement
All data collected in this survey will be held anonymously and securely. No personal data is asked for or retained.
Cookies, personal data stored by your Web browser, are not used in this survey.
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Travel Survey for Staff and Students
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Questions are mandatory unless marked otherwise.
Note that once you have clicked on the CONTINUE button your answers are submitted and you can not return to
review or amend that page.
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SECTION A - ABOUT YOU
1. Please indicate if you are a member of staff or a student
Student
Staff member
2. Please provide the name of your town/village
3. Full home postcode (Optional)
4. Are you? (Optional)
Male
Female
5. What is your age? (Optional)
Under 20
20 to 29
30 to 39
40 to 49
50 to 59
Over 60
6. Please enter your School/Service/area of study (Optional)
7. Do you normally work/study?
(Optional)
Full time
Part time
Fixed hours (staff only)
Shift pattern (staff only)
Weekends
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Evenings
No fixed pattern
8. Which days do you normally work/study on campus? (Optional)
(select all that apply)
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
No fixed pattern
9. What hours do you normally work/study (e.g. 09.00 to 17.30) on campus?
a. From
b. To
c. Varying times - please specify
10. Do you have a health problem or disability that affects your choice of travel? (Optional)
Yes
No
Prefer not to say
SECTION B - ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY TO WORK/STUDY
11. How far do you estimate in miles* that your journey to work/study is (one way)? (Optional)
12. How long does your journey normally take, with your most frequent form of transport? (Optional)
0 to 15 minutes
16 to 30 minutes
31 to 45 minutes
46 to 60 minutes
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Over 60 minutes
13. Considering your usual travel pattern, please indicate the number of days that you travel to the
campus using the following modes of transport during a normal working/studying week.
Number of days per week using this particular
mode of transport
a. Car (as a single occupant)
Select an answ er
b. Car (as a passenger)
Select an answ er
c. Car (as a driver with others)
Select an answ er
d. Scooter/moped/motorbike
Select an answ er
e. Bus
Select an answ er
f. Bicycle
Select an answ er
g. Walk
Select an answ er
h. Dropped off
Select an answ er
i. Other
Select an answ er
SECTION C - TRAVEL BY CAR
If you travel to work/study by car, please answer the following two sections (Section C and D) otherwise please move
to Section E
14. What are your main reasons for using a car to get to work/study? (Optional)
(select all that apply)
Reliability
Comfort and ease
Time saving
Alternatives not available/realistic
Cost savings
Disability/health reason
Personal safety
Carer responsibilities (e.g. school run)
Distance travelled too far to use alternative
Car needed for business travel
Other (please specify):
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15. How many days a week do you use your car for the following?
a. Lunch time trips
Select an answ er
b. Other purposes on the way to
work/study
Select an answ er
c. Other purposes on the way
home
Select an answ er
16. What do you consider are the main traffic problems on your way to work/study? (Optional)
(select all that apply)
Traffic congestion
Queuing traffic to access or exit the campus
Parking problems on site
No problems encountered
Other (please specify):
17. How often do you experience traffic problems that add to your overall journey times? (Optional)
Most days
2 to 3 days per week
2 to 3 days per fortnight
2 to 3 days per month
Very occasionally
Never
18. Where do you normally park? (Optional)
On street parking
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University car park
Other location
If University car park or other location, please specify: (Optional)
19. What type of car do you use - e.g. diesel, petrol, electric hybrid and the engine size of your
car? (Optional)
SECTION D - ALTERNATIVES TO THE CAR
Which of the following (outlined in questions 20 to 24) would you like to see?
20. Which of the following would encourage you to car share?
a. 1st
choice
Select an answ er
b. 2nd
choice
Select an answ er
c. 3rd
choice
Select an answ er
21. Which of the following would encourage you to use public transport?
a. 1st choice
Select an answ er
b. 2nd choice
Select an answ er
c. 3rd choice
Select an answ er
22. Would you be more likely to cycle if any of the following were provided?
a. 1st
choice
b. 2nd
Select an answ er
Select an answ er
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choice
c. 3rd
choice
Select an answ er
23. If you travel by motorcycle/moped which of the following would you like to see?
a. 1st choice
Select an answ er
b. 2nd choice
Select an answ er
c. 3rd choice
Select an answ er
24. Would you be more likely to walk to work/study, if any of the following were available?
a. 1st choice
Select an answ er
b. 2nd choice
Select an answ er
c. 3rd choice
Select an answ er
25. How often would you be likely to use any of the alternatives methods of transport, as opposed to your car, if any
of the above examples were available/provided?
daily
1 to
2
times
a
week
3 to
4
times
a
week
Occasionally
Never
Sometimes
a. Car Sharing
b. Public transport
c. Cycle
d. Motorcycle
e. Walk
SECTION E - JOURNEY TO WORK/STUDY BY NON CAR USERS
If you have already provided responses to Section C & D, please move to Section F
26. What are your main reasons for not using a car to get to work/study? (Optional)
(select all that apply)
No car available
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Enjoy using the alternative
Avoid congestion
Environmental concerns
Cost savings
Health /Fitness reasons
Most practical method
Other (please specify):
SECTION F - BUSINESS TRAVEL IN THE UK
If you do not use your car for business travel in the UK, please move to Section G
27. How often do you use your car for business purposes in the UK? (Optional)
Daily
1 to 2 days a week
3 to 4 days a week
Fortnightly
Monthly
Occasionally
Other (please specify):
28. If applicable what are your main reasons for using your car to travel for business purposes in the UK, as
opposed to using other methods of transport? (Optional)
(select all that apply)
Evening meetings
Public transport does not go where I have to travel to
Have to visit more than one place
Carry bulky equipment
Concerned about safety
Quicker than alternatives
Cost effectiveness
Other (please specify):
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29. Approximately how many miles per year do you travel by car on business in the UK? (Optional)
Less than 50 miles
101 miles up to 500
501 miles up to 1000
1001 miles up to 3000
3001 miles up to 5000
Over 5001 miles
Other (please specify):
30. Please indicate which of the following options you feel represent realistic alternatives to the car for business
trips? (Optional)
(select all that apply)
Public transport
Car sharing to meetings
Pool car
Walking
Cycling
Video conferencing
Other (please specify):
SECTION G - OVER TO YOU
31. Your views are really important to us and will assist when shaping up future plans for the University. Please feel
free to add any comments or ideas on travel issues in the space provided. (Optional)
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Appendix B
Review of Travel Plan 2016
Progress on Measures and Action
5.1 Introduction
Progress on specific actions proposed is detailed below.
5.2 Marketing and promotion
The Transport services page on the Intranet has become a portal to information on bus services, cycling,
vehicle hire, car sharing, parking, taxi, rail and other national information on travel. There is also a separate
page on the Travel Plan itself and recent news on relevant actions to meet the aims of the plan (section 5.2.2.2)
5.3 Measures to promote public transport use
The University went out to tender in 2013 to work in partnership with a public bus service provider. The tender
was won by Uno a bus company owned by University of Hertfordshire. This has led to more regular and
frequent service operating over extended hours which is a real step change in provision. The current service
connects Cranfield campus with both Bedford and Milton Keynes with a half hourly service Monday to Friday
and frequent services on both Saturday and Sunday. As a consequence students are finding it easier to find
accommodation if they live off campus (section 5.3.2.1).
The new Uno bus service has provision for wheelchair access addressing in part the aim to have an improved
bus service which meets the needs of more members of the campus community (section 5.3.2.2).
5.4 Measures to promote walking and cycling
New cycle shelters and cycle hoops were installed in 2012 and the shower facilities in the sports centre made
available for cyclists (Section 5.4.4.1).
Whilst a cycling user group has not been established there is regular liaison with the CSA (students union) to
support cycling. Safe cycling is promoted on the cycling page on the intranet and information provided on local
routes (section 5.4.5.1).
5.5 Business travel measures/working practices
Web conferencing facilitates continue to develop and there are now arrange of options which are promoted
through the intranet (section 5.5.1).
5.6 Long term cycle/walk infrastructure improvements
In 2014 a new cycleway was established between Cranfield Village and Cranfield Campus to the south of the
airfield. The cycle way is shared use providing benefits to walkers as well as cyclists. This was installed by
Central Bedfordshire Council with a contribution from the University which helped link the cycleway into the
campus (section 5.6.2).
Minor improvements have been made to the public footpath which goes around the north of the runway. This
was to make the path more usable to walkers in winter (section 5.6.4)
5.7 Measures to promote efficient car use
We have introduced a guaranteed ride home scheme (section 5.7.2.1). Car share is regularly promoted with at
least two events organised each year (section 5.7.3.1). We have maintained membership of liftshare and
posters, leaflets , emails and updates on the intranet have helped to raise awareness of car sharing benefits
(section 5.7.2.1).
5.8 Travel Plan Partnership
We have liaised with Nissan to promote the new Uno bus service. However we have not yet formalised a
partnership to develop a wider travel plan.
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7. Travel Plan Targets
7.1 Output Targets
These relate to the actions above and as set out in section 5
Travel
Plan
Travel Plan Measure
Opportunities
Status
Notes
Travel Plan
Management
Achieved
Gareth Ellis selected 2012
Marketing and
Promotion of
Travel Plan
Promoting
Public
Transport Use
■
Appoint a Travel Plan Coordinator
■
Sustainable travel welcome packs
for both new staff and students/
Travel Plan portal to promote to
existing campus community
Achieved
■
Sustainable travel notifications
using key communication points
In progress
■
Go out to Tender for Bedford MK
bus service route
Achieved
■
Establish Bus User Group (BUG)
No
progress
■
Review Flitwick and Newport
Pagnell bus service route
Abandoned
2013
■
Maintain
public
transport
information on intranet
Walking and cycling route maps
issued to staff and students
Cycle parking and way finding
improvements
■
■
Promoting
Cycling and
Walking
Promoting
Efficient
Business
Travel /
Working
Practices
■
Changing facilities audit
■
Cycle User Group (CUG)
■
Flexible working practises for staff
■
Home working where applicable
■
Video and Audio conference
facilities to reduce business travel
Car Share databases promoted to
staff and students
■
Promoting
Efficient Car
Use
Joint Working
with Local
Employers
Achieved
In progress
Ongoing
Ongoing
No
progress
No
progress
No
progress
Ongoing
Achieved
■
Car Share promotional events
Achieved
■
Car Parking Management
In progress
■
Harnessing
the
existing
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
In progress
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Travel portal on Intranet since
2012
Twitter used for bus service
interruptions.
Real
time
planned.
Since improved to give half
hourly service to Bedford & MK
Regular liaison with CSA
instead
Resources
reallocated
for
Newport Pagnell and MK route.
Travel portal on Intranet since
2012
Cycle routes on intranet
Some parking installed in 2012
and 2015
Facilities available at Sport
Centre and planned for new
buildings.
Regular liaison with CSA
instead
Range
of
services
now
available
Continued
membership
of
liftshare
At least two per year
Being reviewed in 2016 in light
of Masterplan
Have met with Nissan to
promote Uno bus services
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7.2 Outcome Targets
The key target which is also a high level environmental target is the reduction of staff car alone travel from 76%
to 68% by the end of 2017/2018
Initial Mode Share Outcome Targets
Car alone
Car share
Motorbike
Bus
Cycling
Walking
Other
TOTAL
Staff
Current
(2012)
76%
14%
1%
3%
4%
1%
1%
100%
Target
(2017)
■ 68%
■ 17%
■ 1%
■ 6%
■ 6%
■ 1%
■ 1%
■ 100%
Students
Current
(2012)
■ 30%
■ 10%
■ 0%
■ 19%
■ 10%
■ 27%
■ 3%
■ 100%
Target
(2017)
■ 25%
■ 12%
■ 0
■ 23%
■ 12%
■ 28%
■ 0%
■ 100%
Actual progress
This is based on staff and student responses to surveys set out in 2012, 2014 and 2016.
Staff
Car alone
Car share
Motorbike
Bus
Cycling
Walking
Other
TOTAL
2012
76%
14%
1%
3%
4%
1%
1%
100%
Students
2014
73%
11%
1%
7%
5%
1%
1%
100%
2016
69%
14%
2%
7%
5%
3%
1%
100%
2012
30%
10%
0%
19%
10%
27%
3%
100%
2014
13%
6%
0%
25%
9%
44%
0%
100%
2016
14%
5%
0%
16%
10%
52%
2%
100%
The results for staff are encouraging and show a steady drop in single occupancy car use in line with the key
target. The student results are a bit more mixed with some surprising numbers which may be explained by a
lower percentage of students responding to the surveys and also some variability in the proportion of students
living off campus.
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