Londonderry folk will be askedto travel healthy, eco-friendly,cheap and smart

The project is the first of its kind to be led by local people in Northern Ireland.

From Monday, May 23 until July, people in 2,000 households in Galliagh, Shantallow and Carnhill areas will be contacted and offered information and support about walking, cycling and using public transport for short, local journeys rather than using the car.

As well as encouraging a more active population and helping to reduce local traffic congestion, the project could help people save money on their travel at a time of rising fuel costs.

The project – called TravelSmart – is being led by charity Sustrans and their partners Socialdata, with funding from the Department for Social Development, Department for Regional Development Roads Service, Derry City Council and Translink, and support from the Greater Shantallow Area Partnership and Outer North Neighbourhood Partnership.

Ross McGill, Sustrans Area Manager in Londonderry, said: “The areas we’re working in have some of the best walking and cycling provisions in the city, with many flat and traffic-free routes that are great for new or occasional cyclists, or families with younger children.

“Increasing walking, cycling and public transport use is often a case of letting people know what routes and services are available, and encouraging people to use them.

“Given the right information we’ve found that people are often more than willing to leave their cars at home for short journeys and travel in more active ways. We’re looking forward to getting a positive local response.”

Similar projects elsewhere have consistently achieved reductions in car trips of 10 per cent or more, whilst at the same time levels of walking, cycling and public transport use have increased. Sustrans expects to see similar results from the project in Londonderry.

The Londonderry project is the first that has had such a major involvement from volunteers - a team of nineteen local people have come forward to help make the project a success.

Marie Gillespie, one of the volunteers on the project, said: “I think this is a great idea. Supporting people to walk, cycle or use public transport more often will improve their health and wellbeing, ease traffic congestion and help us save money. I’m looking forward to being part of that and making a difference to the local community.”

For more information please email [email protected] or visit www.sustrans.org.u.