University of Birmingham Travel Plan - August 2015

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University of Birmingham
Sustainable Travel Plan
2010 – 2015
Updated August 2015
Index
Page
1. Introduction
3
2. What is a Travel Plan?
5
3. Policy Context
7
Higher Education Funding
7
National Policy Context
7
Local Planning Guidance
9
4. The University of Birmingham
10
University Profile
10
Visitors
10
Walking & Cycling Facilities
11
Public Transport Facilities
11
Car Park Management
13
5. Travel Plan Management
15
University Governance and the Travel Plan
15
Environmental Policy
15
6. Current Situation
19
Overview
19
Staff Travel
20
Student Travel
21
7. Travel Plan Measures
23
Marketing and Communication
23
Reducing the Need to Travel
28
Walking Measures
28
Cycling Measures
30
Public Transport Measures
33
Motorcycling Measures
35
Car Sharing
35
Business Travel
36
Residential Travel Plan Measures
38
8. Objectives, Targets and Monitoring
39
9. Action Plan
41
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
2
1. Introduction
1.1
The Sustainable Travel Plan for the University of Birmingham is a key component in
support of the University’s Carbon Management Implementation Plan, Estates
Development Framework and the Environmental Policy. It has been developed by the
University’s Travel Plan Steering Group in order to identify and implement a range of
measures and initiatives that encourage and deliver sustainable ways of conducting
the University’s travel activities to the benefit of the institution, individuals and the
environment.
1.2
The Travel Plan covers a five-year period from 2010 to 2015 with the intention that
during this period it will achieve a change in culture and behaviour at the University to
adopt more sustainable travel practices. The Travel Plan is a living document and as
such will continuously develop as necessary to address the changing needs of the
University and the environment in which it operates.
1.3
The focus at this stage of the Travel Plan is on the main Edgbaston campus with a
view to rolling out some of the measures to other University campuses where
appropriate at a later date.
1.4
The Travel Plan demonstrates how the University manages its traffic impact which
assists the University in not only in achieving its sustainability objectives but also in
obtaining planning permission from the local authority for future major development
proposals. The Travel Plan will also:

Help reduce congestion in the local area and minimise the University’s impact on the
local road network.

Improve the University’s environmental performance and reputation by reducing the
level of carbon emissions generated by the University’s business travel and
commuting habits.

Assist in reducing the demand for car parking spaces and visual intrusion caused by
parked vehicles to create an improved environment for people both working and
studying at the University plus local residents.

Increase travel choice for staff, students and visitors. A wider range of travel options
enhances the recruitment and retention of staff and students and contributes to the
University’s aim of widening access.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
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
Bring health benefits as part of the University’s commitment to workplace wellbeing.
Car traffic is linked to heart disease, obesity, asthma and other respiratory illnesses.

Reduce corporate transport overheads by minimising business mileage.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
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2. What is a Travel Plan?
2.1
A travel plan is a package of measures developed by an organisation to promote the
use of sustainable modes of travel and reduce the reliance on the private car. It is
important to highlight that travel plans are about encouraging people to make
informed decisions about the way they travel and to support a range of sustainable
travel options. A Travel Plan is not about the total abandonment of cars or the sudden
shift of large numbers of people from using their cars five days a week to using the
bus. For each individual there may be a slightly different modal shift. Some will take
the bus, some will car-share, some will cycle and some will walk (as appropriate to
personal and business needs and home address). The important objective is to make
all of these options available and attractive.
2.2
A travel plan is based on the idea of ‘win-win’ scenarios and the ability of well
informed individuals to realise the advantages of changing the way they travel. These
advantages could include:
2.3

A wider choice of travel options;

A healthier lifestyle for those who walk and/or cycle;

Less time spent in traffic jams and in queues;

Time savings from not needing to search for a car parking space;

Financial savings;

A less problematic journey;

Environmental gains;

Improved recruitment and retention; and

A reduced carbon footprint.
Any travel plan will contain a number of measures, both to positively influence (‘soft’)
and to discriminate against defined travel behaviour (‘hard’). Soft measures may
consist of a range of incentives to encourage cycling (bicycle loans, showers and
convenient and secure parking), and car sharing incentives (database matching,
priority car parking spaces and financial rewards). On the other hand, hard measures
may consist of parking restrictions and increased car parking charges. Every site is
unique and requires its own mixture of site specific ‘soft’ and ‘hard’ measures.
2.4
The travel issues that are likely to be faced within higher education are very different
to those faced by other types of organisation. The travel plan needs to ensure that the
current and future needs of both the staff and students are taken into account,
despite their differing travel requirements. The development and implementation of a
travel plan is now common practice within many Universities. Additionally there is
increasing pressure for higher education institutions to report and show progress on
their carbon footprints including travel impacts.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
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2.5
There are a number of further issues which need to be taken into account within the
development of the University Travel Plan, these include:

The importance of safety, personal wellbeing and personal security on
the journey to the University;

The need for the University to continue to attract students and staff in
an increasingly competitive higher education market place;

The relationship between the University and its community, in particular
local residents; and

The importance of educating future graduates about the environmental,
health and safety and local community implications of their travel
choices and influencing the way they travel at an early age.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
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3. Policy Context
3.1
The current UK Government agenda for providing transport access is moving away
from one of providing significant new highway capacity. Instead, policies seek to
encourage more sustainable modes of travel than the private car.
Higher Education Funding
3.2
In January 2011 the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE)
commissioned work to assist in measuring Scope 3 emissions from higher education
institutions (HEIs). One of the objectives of this work was to produce definitions for
measuring scope 3 emissions at institutional level for use within Estate Management
Statistics from 2012/13. EMS is administered via the Higher education Statistics
Agency (HESA) and the EMS definitions relating to scope 3 carbon emissions cover
business and commuter travel.
The Department for Education and Skills mandated HEFCE to promote sustainable
development and to reflect it in the capital funding allocation for Universities. This
resulted in HEFCE setting a carbon reduction target for the sector of at least 43%
by 2020/21 against a 2005/06 baseline, which represents a 34% reduction against a
1990 baseline. In addition the second Capital Investment Framework requires
Universities to have carbon management plans.
The HEFCE document: Measuring scope 3 emissions – transport: A guide to good
practice (January 2012/ref:2012/02) provides HEIs with information on how to
calculate scope 3 carbon emissions generated by work-related travel. The guidance
aims to help HEIs to adopt efficient and effective data collection practices, and
includes examples of good practice within the HEI sector. HEIs have to explain how
emissions have been calculated and performance baselined. Guidance on how to
calculate and report work related travel emissions plus current conversion factors and
spreadsheet tools are available from a range of sources including:

Measuring scope 3 carbon emissions – Transport. A guide to good
practice (2012) available from Defra/ DECC and at www.hefce.ac.uk

August 2011 Guidelines to Defra/DECC’s Greenhouse Gas Conversion
Factors for Company Reporting

DfT and Defra
www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/sustainable/greenhousegasemissions
National Policy Context
3.3
The Government’s transport white paper entitled Creating Growth, Cutting Carbon –
Making Sustainable Local Transport Happen, issued in 2011, emphasises the need
for a balanced approach to transport provision in the UK—highlighting the need for
systems that support economic activity whilst simultaneously preserving and
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
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enhancing the environment, safety and quality of life in local communities. The Paper
emphasises the need for locally developed transport solutions through partnership
working, focussed on increasing the attractiveness of walking, cycling and use of
public transport to facilitate every day, local journeys in preference to the private car.
National policy is provided in the National Planning Policy Framework, which has
also replaced Planning Policy Guidance 13 (Transport) in March 2012. The
Framework promotes sustainable development through encouraging local planning
authorities to:

support development that facilitates the use of sustainable modes of
transport, including potential to locate developments where the need to travel
will be minimised;

develop strategies for the provision of viable transport infrastructure to
support sustainable developments; and,

identify and protect sites and routes which could be critical in developing
infrastructure to widen transport choice.
Local planning policies should aim to minimise journey lengths and promote mixed
use development, with key facilities (such as local shops) located within walking
distance, particularly for large-scale developments.
The Framework sets out the requirement for a Transport Statement or Transport
Assessment, taking account of: opportunities for sustainable transport modes to
reduce the need for major infrastructure, the provision of safe and suitable access,
and the effects on existing networks.
Sustainable modes of transport should be encouraged for developments through
design and setting including efficient goods delivery, priority to pedestrians and
cyclists, access to high quality public transport, safe and secure layouts, facilities for
ultra-low emission vehicles, and consideration of the needs of people with disabilities.
To that end, a Travel Plan is required for all developments that generate significant
movements.
Smarter Choices
3.5
Smarter Choices – Changing the Way we Travel (DfT, 2004) illustrates the
effectiveness of ‘soft measures’ through case studies. The case studies highlight
interventions such as car sharing, flexible working, marketing and the use of
personalised travel planning. The Report identifies that high intensity interventions
could result in a nationwide reduction in peak time urban traffic of up to 21%
compared to 2003 levels while lower intensity activities could help to achieve a
reduction of around 5%
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
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West Midlands Local Transport Plan
3.6
The West Midlands Local Transport plan (LTP3) 2011-2026 recognises the national
objectives of safety and security, improving accessibility and connectivity, modal
transfer and creation of sustainable travel patterns, improve to the environment and
reduction of carbon emissions.
Aims of the LTP include:

limiting annual road traffic growth to between 3% and 6% between 2009/10 and
2015/16;

increasing bus patronage by 5% from 2010/11 baseline levels by 2015/16;

increasing the West Midlands active travel index by 5% from the 21010/11
baseline of 100 by 2015/16; and

increasing the proportion of trips by public transport into the nine strategic LTP
centres as a whole during the AM Peak to 50% by 2015/16.
Local Planning Guidance
3.7
The local planning authority, Birmingham City Council, requires the University to
develop a Travel Plan and Car Parking Strategy (CPS) as part of the Estates
Development Framework. Adhering to the City Council’s requirement will assist in the
achievement of planning permission for all future significant development at the
University.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
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4. The University of Birmingham
University Profile
4.1
The University of Birmingham is the largest of the West Midlands higher education
institutions with approximately 32,000 students studying for both undergraduate and
postgraduate degrees. There are nearly 5,000 international students from almost 150
different countries, making it one of the largest international student communities in
the UK. The University also employs approximately 7,500 members of staff.
4.2
The University is over 100 years old and owns over 620 acres hectares of land,
including properties in Stratford-upon-Avon and the Lake District. The majority of the
University is accommodated on two main sites in Birmingham; the Edgbaston
Campus is 250 acres in size and within 1 mile of the 80-acre Selly Oak campus. The
buildings have a diverse range of ages from Victorian to modern. In total the
University owns or controls some 600,000m2 of built space valued in excess of £1
billion. The University has its own railway station, art gallery, geological museum,
botanic garden, concert hall, sports centre and one of the largest Students’ Unions in
the UK.
Visitors
4.3
The University attracts a large number of visitors to its campus and associated
attractions. In addition to this a vast amount of people visit the University on open
days, applicant visit days, campus tours and conferences. Amongst these visitors are
a number of distinguished individuals such as the Lord Chief Justice who attended
the University to present a seminar plus the University hosted the Leaders Debate
during the 2010 election campaign. The University encourages as many of its visitors
as possible to travel by alternative modes of transport through the Travel Plan
measures but there is also a need to be realistic and understand that not all visitors
will use more sustainable modes of travel.
4.4
Transport is a key strength of the University’s research, teaching and knowledge
transfer activities The University wishes to reflect this leadership and expertise in its
day to day practices. Some highlights include the following:

Transport technology has been identified as one of the major research
themes in the University’s research strategy.

The Collaborative Research Network for Transportation brings together work
in a number of departments within the Engineering School, and within the
Schools of Computer Science; Geography, Earth and Environmental
Sciences, the Institute of Local Government Studies and Centre for Urban
and Regional Studies.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
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
Within the Institute for Energy Research and Policy there are numerous
projects aimed at achieving sustainable travel systems, including world
leading research on hydrogen.
Walking and Cycling Facilities
4.5
Strong pedestrian links are provided internally on campus, linking the site with the
surround local road network.
4.6
Cyclists are well catered for within the campus due to the provision of footpaths;
although there are limited facilities on the surrounding highway network. Access is
however provided to a traffic-free route in the form of a canal towpath which runs
between Birmingham and destinations to the south such as Selly Oak and Cotteridge.
Public Transport Facilities
Bus
4.7
The University is well served by public transport with bus provision
being located within easy walking distances. There are bus stops on the Bristol Road
and a bus interchange is to the north of the campus by University Station. Figure 1
and Table 1 below provides details on the local bus services.
Figure 1 National Express West Midlands map of local bus services
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
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Table 1 Bus Services in the Surrounding Area
No. of buses per hour
Bus
Route
Service
1
22
23
24
29
29A
48
61, 63,
X64
Weekday
AM Peak
Daytime
PM Peak
Moseley to Birmingham
8
5
8
Birmingham to Moseley
8
5
8
Kitwell to Birmingham via Harborne
5
4
4
Birmingham to Kitwell via Harborne
5
4
5
Woodgate to Birmingham via Harborne
5
4
4
Birmingham to Woodgate via Harborne
5
4
5
Woodgate North to Bham via Harborne
6
6
6
Bham to Woodgate North via Harborne
6
6
6
Northfield to Birmingham via Harborne
3
3
3
Birmingham to Northfield via Harborne
3
3
3
Shenley Fields to Bham via Harborne
3
3
3
Bham to Shenley Fields via Harborne
3
3
3
Bearwood to Bham via QE Hospital
2
2
2
Bham to Bearwood via QE Hospital
2
2
2
Selly Oak, Northfield, Longbridge and Rubery to
12
12
12
12
12
12
Solihull to Birmingham via QE Hospital
3
3
3
Birmingham to Solihull via QE Hospital
3
3
3
Kings Norton to Bham via QE Hospital
1
1
1
Bham to Kings Norton via QE Hospital
1
1
1
Rubery to Bham via QE Hospital
3
3
3
Bham to Rubery via QE Hospital
3
3
3
Halesowen to Bham via QE Hospital
3
3
3
Bham to Halesowen via QE Hospital
3
3
3
Bham via Bristol Road
Bham to Selly Oak, Northfield, Longbridge and
Rubery via Bristol Road
76
84
98
99
4.8
The above table shows that during weekday AM peak hour there are 108 two-way
bus services, and 106 two-way services in the PM peak. A further 98 two-way
services are available during each daytime hour. This demonstrates that there is very
good bus service provision in the vicinity of the site and the University Campus.
4.9
National Express West Midlands have add a 24 hour service to X64. This will
accommodate the extended opening times for the new Sports Centre due open 2016.
4.10
National Express West Midlands provide a free leaflet entitled ‘Getting to and from
the University of Birmingham’ which is to available in locations across campus.
National Express West Midlands provide an app for customers to find live information
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
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on the local bus services. This app is advertised on the University’s Sustainable
Travel webpages.
Rail
4.11
The University of Birmingham is the only UK University to have its own railway station
on campus, known as ‘University Station’. This is the second busiest station on the
Cross-City line after Birmingham New Street, with over 2 million passengers using the
station every year. Having its own train station on campus, makes travel to the
University by train a convenient option particularly for those who live in areas served
by the Cross City Line which runs from Lichfield to Redditch and for others who use
services to Bromsgrove and Worcester. Regular services run from University Station
to Birmingham New Street where staff students and visitors can catch trains to
locations all across the country. The journey between the University and Birmingham
New Street takes approximately 8 minutes.
Car Park Management
4.12
Hospitality and Accommodation Services are responsible for the management of car
parking including administration of permits, barriers, maintenance and security.
Staff
4.13
Car parking for staff is a flat rate pay-as-you-go system in all locations between
9.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Fridays. This includes vehicles which have entered
before 09.30 and leave after 16.30, if they are present during the charging period.
Charges do not apply between 4.30pm on one day and 9.30am the next day.
4.14
Members of staff have an option to pay through salary deduction by swiping their
University ID cards on entry to the car parks or are able to pay a flat rate monthly fee.
Parking is based mainly on a first come, first served basis, although all staff parking
on campus should be in possession of a valid parking permit. Some dedicated
parking provision is made for disabled users. Disabled staff and students are entitled
to free access to the campus.
4.15
By having a pay-as-you-go option it is hoped that staff will decide on a daily basis,
according to the weather or their plans for the day, whether to drive or travel by other
more sustainable modes of transport. It may be possible for some car drivers to use
an alternative mode once or twice a week and this is encouraged.
4.16
The funds raised by car parking are used to pay for improvements to the walking and
cycling infrastructure, subsidising bus services as well as the operation and
maintenance of the car parks and associated charging system.
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Students
4.17
Eligible students who meet a specific criteria are only permitted to park in the North
Car Park (Pritchatts Road), the North East Car Park (Pritchatts Road) and in the
Pritchatts Road Car Park (corner of Pritchatts Road and Vincent Drive). After 4.30pm
Monday to Friday and at weekends, students who have registered their details with
Car Parking Records will automatically be able to access the main campus car parks
using their swipe card. There is no charge made for parking at these times. Car
parking costs £1.00 per day pay and display Monday to Friday until 4.30pm.
Visitors
4.18
Visitors to campus are directed to the peripheral pay and display car parks. Visitor car
parking charges are on a sliding scale as follows:

Up to 1 hour £2.00

1 – 3 hours £3.00

3 – 5 hours £4.00

5 hours + £6.00
Enforcement
4.19
On the 26 September 2011 the University introduced an improved car park
management system at the Edgbaston campus. Any vehicle which contravenes the
University of Birmingham’s Traffic Regulations when bringing vehicles on campus
may be issued with a financial penalty notice.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
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5. Travel Plan Management
5.1
The Travel Plan needs support from the University community ranging from senior
management to undergraduates in order to be successful, it is also important to have
a strong level of governance.
University Governance and the Travel Plan
University Executive Board
5.2
The University Executive Board (UEB) is the governing body that approves all
aspects of the Travel Plan. The aim of the Board is to provide strategic management
and leadership of the University, under the Council’s direction and within the
Council’s scheme of delegation. The Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group reports
to the University Executive Board through the Sustainability Task Group.
Sustainability Task Group
5.3
The University of Birmingham has been pro-active in developing its sustainability
agenda over the past few years with the Sustainability Task Group (STG) being
responsible for developing the University’s sustainability strategy and Carbon
Management Plan. Its membership and terms of reference were reviewed in February
2011 and now comprises senior members of the University with key responsibilities
including the Sustainable Travel Coordinator. The Task Group produces an annual
action plan and reports to the University Executive Board.
Environmental Policy
5.4
The University recognises that it has a responsibility towards, and should aim to,
protect and nurture the environment. The University’s Environmental Policy
Statement sets out aims and objectives for safeguarding the environment whilst still
pursuing its strategic objectives, not least in relation to research and teaching.
5.5
By exercising proper control over all its activities the University aims to ensure the
sustainable use of resources and prevention of wasteful or damaging practices. The
University of Birmingham aims to manage its operations in ways that are
environmentally sustainable, economically feasible and socially responsible.
5.6
The policy sets the following objective for travel and transport:

To implement sustainable transport practices across all activities with the
aim of achieving the University’s carbon reduction targets.
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5.7
The University has appointed a Sustainability and Environmental Advisor, whose role
is to support the University's commitment to good environmental practice and
sustainability and in particular the implementation of the University’s Environmental
Policy. Advice is available to enable staff, students and visitors to play their part in
protecting the environment.
Carbon Management Implementation Plan 2010 to 2020
The
University
Carbon
Management
plan
was
updated
in
April
2014
https://intranet.birmingham.ac.uk/collaboration/environment/documents/public/Carbon
-Management-Plan-Update-2014.pdf including more robust figures for scope 3 data
5.9
The HEFCE consultation on a carbon reduction target and strategy (July 2009/27)
proposes that the higher education sector:
‘Commits to reducing scope 1 and 2 emissions) by 80 per cent by 2050 and by at
least 34 per cent by 2020, against a 1990 baseline.’
‘Aspires to reduce scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50 per cent by 2020 and by 100 per
against 1990 levels.’
‘Commits to reducing scope 3 emissions and to improving measurement of scope 3
emissions with the intention of setting targets for these emissions in the future.’
The HEFCE report ‘Sustainable development in higher education’ December 2014/30
stated they will revisit performance against this target
Additionally HEFCE propose to explore the feasibility of establishing a Carbon
Information Service to provide advice and support, including on measuring and
reporting carbon emissions, interpreting UK government policy such as the
accounting treatment of renewables projects, and the feasibility of scope 3 reduction
targets.
5.10
Scope 1 emissions are direct emissions that occur from sources owned or controlled
by the organisation and include emissions from fleet vehicles.
5.11
Scope 2 accounts for emissions from the generation of purchased electricity
consumed by the organisation
5.12
Scope 3 covers all other indirect emissions which are a consequence of the activities
of the organisation, but occur from sources not owned or controlled by the
organisation – and includes land-based business travel, commuting (both staff and
students), Air travel (international students; international student exchange;
business).
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Environmental sustainability is identified as an underpinning principle of the University’s
Strategic
Framework
to
2015
–
Shaping
our
future:
Birmingham
2015:
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/Documents/university/shaping-future.pdf
The University published its first carbon management plan in May 2006 which
included calculations for emissions emanating from commuting and business travel
activities. An update was published in 2008, however emissions due to travel were
not updated due to a lack of robust data. The Plan was further updated in 2010:
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/Documents/university/environment/carbon-plan.pdf
to provide details of the steps required to measure, monitor and reduce the
University’s carbon footprint over the period to 2020 by at least 20%. This Plan
updates and therefore supersedes the previous Carbon Management Implementation
Plan.
5.9
The HEFCE consultation on a carbon reduction target and strategy (July 2009/27)
proposes that the higher education sector:
‘Commits to reducing scope 1 and 2 emissions) by 80 per cent by 2050 and by at
least 34 per cent by 2020, against a 1990 baseline.’
‘Aspires to reduce scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50 per cent by 2020 and by 100 per
against 1990 levels.’
‘Commits to reducing scope 3 emissions and to improving measurement of scope 3
emissions with the intention of setting targets for these emissions in the future.’
5.10
Scope 1 emissions are direct emissions that occur from sources owned or controlled
by the organisation and include emissions from fleet vehicles.
5.11
Scope 2 accounts for emissions from the generation of purchased electricity
consumed by the organisation
5.12
Scope 3 covers all other indirect emissions which are a consequence of the activities
of the organisation, but occur from sources not owned or controlled by the
organisation – and includes land-based business travel, commuting (both staff and
students), Air travel (international students; international student exchange;
business).
Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group
5.13
The University’s Sustainable Travel Plan is developed, implemented and monitored
via a Steering Group which is chaired by the Pro-Vice Chancellor for Estates and
Infrastructure. The key challenge of this Group is to gain full commitment and sign up
from users and the local authority. The Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group
(STPSG) reports to the University Executive Board.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
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5.14
The Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group members are Director of Estates,
Sustainability and Environmental Advisor, Assistant Director of Finance, Director of
Wellbeing and the Sustainable Travel Coordinator.
Sustainable Travel Coordinator
5.15
A Sustainable Travel Coordinator was appointed in 2008 as the first objective towards
producing a University Travel Plan. It is the responsibility of the Coordinator to assist
and support the STPSG in the successful development of the Travel Plan and to be
the first point of contact for students, staff and visitors to the University.
5.16
The Coordinator’s responsibilities include:

Implementing the Travel Plan measures;

Marketing and publicity of measures, maintaining the momentum of the Travel
Plan;

Keeping all public transport records up to date;

Liaison with public transport operators, local authorities, employees, students
and other partners such as University Hospital Trust;

Facilitating car sharing;

Conducting, analysing and providing feedback on staff and student travel
surveys;

Monitoring modal shift patterns and therefore the success of the Travel Plan
measures; and

Reviewing effectiveness and researching further measures.
Partnership Working
5.17
Partnerships are an important aspect to the success of a Travel Plan. By establishing
partnerships the University can gain support for its work, share information and keep
abreast of best practice. As such the Sustainable Travel Coordinator has developed
partnerships with the following:

Birmingham City Council TravelWise Team;

London Midland;

National Express West Midlands;

Centro;

University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust; and

Environmental Association of Universities and Colleges (EAUC) to benchmark
and determine best practice.
5.18
The University Hospital site adjoins the University’s main campus in Edgbaston.
Therefore it has been important to establish partnership working in terms of
developing and implementing travel plan measures for the entire site area.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
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5.19
Birmingham City Council and Centro have Travel Plan Officers who offer free help
and advice to organisations developing Travel Plans. The Officers attend University
events such as Wellbeing Day and Bike Week to assist in encouraging staff and
students to travel by sustainable modes of travel.
5.20
Partnership has been developed with the local Universities (Aston University and
Birmingham City University) to enable the Universities to share information and best
practice.
5.21
The University is a member of the EAUC Transport Group. Best practices,
partnerships and exchange of experiences are shared through this Group.
5.22
In terms of internal partnerships at the University the Sustainable Travel Coordinator
primarily works with the following groups to develop and implement the Travel Plan:

Guild of Students

Estates Department

Environmental Coordinators from all departments

Security Department

Internal Communications
6. Current Situation
Overview
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
19
6.1
To demonstrate the methods used by the University to monitor the Travel Plan’s
effectiveness this chapter summarises the recent travel survey results.
6.2
A travel survey of both staff and students was undertaken in March 2013. The data
from this survey was compared to the last survey conducted in 2008 to assess
patterns and changes in modes of travel and whether travel reduction targets have
been achieved. The survey acts as the primary mechanism for measuring the impact
of the University’s Sustainable Travel Plan.
6.3
HEFCE and HESA guidance will be applied to interpret the survey results in terms of
carbon emissions based on the recommended Defra conversion rates. Key findings
from the 2013 survey are being used to assist in further developing the Travel Plan
and implementing additional measures to enable staff and students to make informed
choices about how they can sustainable travel to and from the University. The survey
results provide valuable information about staff and student travel behaviour, whilst
also gauging both groups’ awareness and perceptions of the sustainable travel
options that are available to them.
6.4
The survey results have highlighted mixed results in the achievement of the
Sustainable Travel Plan targets between staff and students. It is positive to note that
there is a decrease in single car occupancy amongst staff coupled with an increase in
staff travelling to the University by public transport and active methods such as
walking and cycling. Single occupancy car travel has remained fairly static amongst
students and there has been a reduction in public transport use. However it should be
noted that the proportion of students walking and cycling to the University has
increased since 2008.
6.5
The following response rate was received for the University’s travel survey:
Staff: 1954 respondents = 31%
Students 3338 respondents = 11%
Staff Travel Method

34.9% of University staff travel by car as a single occupant

8.6% car share

34.5% of staff use public transport (7.8% bus, 26.5% train and 0.2% metro)

13.3% walk/jog

7.9% cycle
Student Travel Method
Undergraduates

5.6% of undergraduates travel by car as a single occupant
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
20

1.2% of undergraduates car share

18.6% of undergraduate students use public transport (7.1% travelling by bus,
11.3% by train and 0.2% by metro)

70% of undergraduates walk/jog

4.3% of undergraduates cycle
Postgraduates

18.1% of postgraduates travel by car as a single occupant

2.8% of postgraduates car share

35.4% of postgraduate students use public transport (9% travelling by bus, 26.1%
by train and 0.3% by metro)

34.3% of postgraduates walk/jog

8.3% of postgraduates cycle
Main Travel Method (%)
100%
90%
Motorbike/Scooter
80%
Taxi
70%
Bicycle
60%
Walk/Jog
50%
Metro
40%
Train
30%
Bus
20%
Car/Van (Shared)
10%
Car/Van (Single Occupant)
0%
Undergraduate
Postgraduate
Staff
Staff Modal Shift 2008 – 2013
6.6
The University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan used the 2008 survey results
as a baseline, from which, targets were devised to encourage sustainable travel
between 2010 and 2015. The targets set were:

Achieve a 5% reduction in the proportion of staff and student single occupancy car
journeys

Increase the proportion of staff and students walking and/or cycling to the University

Increase the proportion of staff and students using public transport to access the
University

Increase the proportion of staff car sharing
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
21
6.7
The table and chart below display the modal shift of staff and student travel habits
between 2008 and 2013. The subsequent description provides detail as to whether
the travel plan targets have been met.
Staff Travel Method
Car/Van (Single Occupant)
Car/Van (Shared)
Bus
Train
Walk/Jog
Bicycle
Taxi
Motorcycle
Other
2008
2013
Change (+/-)
39.3%
9.3%
6.6%
24.1%
10.3%
8.8%
No data
1.2%
0.4%
34.9%
8.6%
7.8%
26.5%
13.3%
7.9%
0.1%
0.8%
0.2%
-4.4%
-0.7%
+1.2%
+2.4%
+3.0%
-0.9%
N/A
-0.4%
-0.2%
Travel method modal shift for UoB Staff (2008-2013)
45.00%
40.00%
35.00%
30.00%
25.00%
20.00%
15.00%
10.00%
5.00%
0.00%
2008 Survey (%)
6.8
2013 Survey (%)
The above table shows the modal shift of staff travel habits between 2008 and 2013.
The University has nearly achieved its target of a 5% reduction in single occupancy
car journeys for staff (-4.4% decrease) however the proportion of staff car sharing has
also decreased by 0.7% instead of increasing.
6.9
The University appears to be meeting the overall 5% reduction in single car
occupancy journeys target, through an increase in the proportion of staff commuting
by public transport and active methods.
Student Modal Shift 2008 - 2013
6.10
In contrast the table and chart below show that the University is experiencing difficulty
in achieving the 5% reduction target for single occupancy car journeys amongst
students. The results highlight an increase in student single occupancy car journeys
by 0.9%, whilst the proportion of students that car share has decreased by 1.3%
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
22
Student Travel Method
2008
2013
Car/Van (Single Occupant)
Car/Van (Shared)
Bus
Train
Walk/Jog
Bicycle
Taxi
Motorcycle
Other
9%
3%
12%
17%
55%
4%
No data
No data
No data
9.9%
1.7%
7.7%
16.4%
57.9%
5.7%
0.3%
0.1%
0.3%
Change
(+/-)
+0.9%
-1.3%
-4.3%
-0.6%
+2.9%
+1.7%
N/A
N/A
N/A
Travel method modal shift for UoB Students (20082013)
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
2008 Survey (%)
6.11
2013 Survey (%)
In addition to the increase in the proportion of student single occupancy car journeys
between 2008 and 2013 there has been a reduction in the proportion of students
commuting by public transport. There has been a 4.3% reduction in the proportion of
bus journeys and a 0.6% decrease in the proportion of students commuting by train.
6.12
Contrastingly, there has been an overall 4.6% increase in the proportion of students
travelling to university by active methods. This overall increase is explained by a
2.9% increase in students commuting on foot to University whilst there has also been
a 1.7% increase in the proportion of students cycling over the same period.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
23
7. Travel Plan Measures
7.1
This Chapter of the Travel Plan identifies the sustainable travel initiatives that already
exist at the University and explores the potential measures which could be
implemented, or at least considered, by the University of Birmingham to deliver the
aims and objectives of the Plan.
Marketing and Communication
Target: “To promote the Travel Plan measures.”
7.2
A vital component of the Travel Plan is to make those it affects aware of its existence
and highlight their role in helping to achieve its objectives. It is therefore extremely
important for the Travel Plan to be effectively marketed and promoted to staff,
students, visitors and the local community in order to garner their support.
7.3
The University already provides a number of ‘sustainable travel’ benefits to its
members of staff including loans for season tickets and salary sacrifice for the
purchase of bicycles. The promotion of the Travel Plan is a key action as there are a
range of facilities and initiatives that staff and students may not be aware of. The
implementation of travel plan measures involves change and it is important that staff
and students understand the ethos of the Plan. A marketing campaign is ongoing with
the aspiration of explaining the purpose and increasing awareness of the Travel Plan
amongst staff and students to try and achieve their buy-in.
7.4
The Travel Plan document will made publicly available.
Internal Communication
7.5
It is essential that staff and students are aware of the Travel Plan and that they
support its objectives. Raising awareness of the plan will be particularly challenging
amongst students who are a transient population and will therefore need to be
continually reminded about the Plan.
The following measures will assist in the
internal communication of the Plan.
Advertising

Travel website

Dedicated travel email address

Facebook, Twitter to appeal to student body

Intranet – my.bham

Buzz Staff Magazine – including ‘good news’ stories

Staff Newsletter (Infocus and Buzz Bitesize)

RedBrick student paper
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
24

Messages on electronic signposts around campus

Messages on staff payslips

Sustainable Travel Coordinator’s email footer

E cards

First Hand (community publication)
Plasma Screens

Staff House

Medical School

Aston Webb building

The Guild

University Centre

Central library

Muirhead Tower

Munrow Sports Centre

The Vale
Leaflets

Aston Webb Reception

Guild of Students

Student Residences

Medical School

Munrow Sports Centre

Muirhead Tower

Arts Building

Ashley Building

Cashiers Office
Editorial

Mybham feature

Email to all staff
Awards and accreditation

Green Gown awards

ACT Travelwise awards
Branding
7.6
Effective communication of the travel plan has been identified as a key issue. The
Steering Group has developed a brand identity for the Travel Plan on which to base
its marketing strategy. The ‘smartmover’ brand has been developed in collaboration
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
25
with the University communication and legal teams and with reference to brands
being used by other authorities. The branding will include consistent logos, colour
schemes etc. to enable staff and students to recognise and relate to Travel Plan
related information and events. This will enable all travel and transport related
activities that come under the Travel Plan’s umbrella to be immediately identified. It
also puts across a clear message that the Plan is becoming part of the University’s
ethos and is not a passing phase.
Travel Website
7.7
A ‘Sustainable Travel’ website has been established on the University’s main website
at www.bham.ac.uk/travel. This website provides information on the Travel Plan,
current facilities and the initiatives being put in place to encourage University users to
change their travel behaviour.
7.8
The website is designed to make users aware of the travel options that are available
to them, and to help them plan their own personal journey to the University. The
website is intended to act as an information point targeted at all users: staff, students
and visitors to the University.
7.9
The website includes the following features:
o
Travel News and Events
o
Travel Surveys
o
Walking information
o
Cycling information
o
Public transport information
o
Sustainable car travel

Car Sharing

Alternative Fuels
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
26
Intranet
7.10
My.bham is the University’s staff intranet site and includes information on getting to
the University by train, bus and cycling. This includes a link to the live departures at
University Station which enables staff to check on the status of their train before
leaving their desk. This information is also provided on the student portal.
Travel Guide
7.11
A ‘Sustainable Travel’ promotional guide promotes the Travel Plan and is currently
being updated. The Guide takes the form of a leaflet which sets out available options
for sustainable travel to the University. The Guide is made available to all new
members of staff through the induction process and at numerous points around the
campus, an electronic version is also available electronically via the travel website.
Induction Process
7.12
The University operates a central staff induction programme and Sustainable Travel
is
incorporated
within
this
programme.
The
programme
includes
getting
representatives from various departments such as Human Resources along to talk to
the new members of staff, and to also provide them with relevant information. The
Sustainable Travel Coordinator and the University’s Sustainability and Environmental
Advisor attend these sessions and make new members of staff aware of the Travel
Plan and all of the University’s environmental projects.
Environment Day
7.13
The University organises an annual Environment Day event at the beginning of the
academic year to which all staff and students are invited. The main location for this
event is the Great Hall where the benefits of sustainable travel are promoted in
conjunction with the Travel Plan. External local partners including Birmingham
Council Sustainable Travel Team, Centro and National Express Travel West
Midlands are also invited to attend. This event provides an excellent opportunity to
inform the University community (>30,000 people) about current measures and
initiatives that are available to them through the implementation of the Travel Plan. It
also enables the Sustainable Travel Coordinator and local travel service providers to
engage with both staff and students.
Wellbeing Days
7.14
The Sustainable Travel Coordinator and the University’s Sustainability and
Environmental Advisor attend the Wellbeing Days that are arranged by various
academic Colleges and Corporate Services departments throughout the year.
Welcome Week
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
27
7.15
The Sustainable Travel Coordinator attends Welcome Week for new students on an
annual basis specifically the ‘Staying Local’ event to advise students who are staying
at home while studying on what public transport links are available.
7.16
As part of the ‘Staying Local’ events the University asked students to plot where they
live on a map to enable the team to put new students in touch with other students
living locally so they can potentially share their journey.
Open Days
7.17
The Sustainable Travel Coordinator also has an input into University Open Days that
occur several times during the year in order to promote to prospective students the
travel benefits of studying at Birmingham University with its excellent public transport
infrastructure. It is hoped that this will be an additional incentive to encourage
prospective students to study at the University.
Student Information and Staff
7.18
Staff and students receive information on sustainable travel options within their
induction pack.
7.19
The Sustainable Travel Coordinator will continue to work with Student Services and
Human Resources to make amendments for future years.
GREG
7.20
The University’s Student Accommodation and Environmental Services Team have
developed a character called GREG – Green. Reduce. (Reuse. Recycle).
Environment. Genius! The Green initiative that aims to spark action into our students
living in halls of residence, so that Recycling and Environmental behaviour becomes
the norm – Genius!
7.21
The GREG character was developed to try and engage with students about
sustainable and environmental issues in a fun and light hearted way. The character
has been successfully implemented into the residences with students receiving their
own GREG recycling bags, GREG shopping bags and there is also a GREG
Facebook www.facebook.com/whoisgreg and twitter feed @UoBGREG. There is a life
sized mascot of GREG which goes around the residences actively encouraging
students to be sustainable.
7.22
There is a ‘GREG Zone’ in the Vale Reception which includes a noticeboard and LCD
screen which is used to publicise and promote all of the sustainable initiatives and
events.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
28
Birmingham TravelWise Membership
7.23
The University of Birmingham is a member of Birmingham TravelWise. TravelWise is
a national scheme to encourage people to think about the impact that their daily
journeys have on the environment, their community and on their own health.
7.24
The main benefit of membership is to network with travel planners and people
involved in sustainable transport around the country, to share each others
experience, documents, and ideas.
Reducing the Need to Travel
7.25
The University uses video conferencing technologies to reduce the need to travel in
particular for business travel. Video conferencing allows individuals and groups of
people to meet and work together without having to be in the same room. A video link
with simultaneous audio link allows people to see as well as hear one another,
wherever in the world they are. The software also gives users the ability to exchange,
transfer and work collaboratively on the same documents and other applications.
People can work on files and give presentations using powerpoint without regard to
the distance between them. Video conferencing meetings tend to be structured more
carefully with faster decision making, as people focus their minds more sharply on the
matter in hand.
7.26
The hardware required for video conferencing is relatively simple, one camera and
one microphone at each geographical location making video conferencing from the
desktop a usual and easily available day-to-day business tool. Software allows live
meetings to be held between two people in different locations or even with five or six
people from various locations.
7.27
The University’s Flexible Working policy permits home working where appropriate.
Working from home is enabled by the University providing remote access to its
systems via Citrix. Citrix is used for accessing software remotely. It can be used both
on and off campus. Citrix is used to access software that would otherwise be
unavailable either on or off campus.
Walking Measures
Target: “To increase the proportion of staff and students walking to the University.”
7.28
The University encourages walking to the University and benefits from good
pedestrian linkages with the surrounding area.
Improved Routes & Linkages
7.29
Clear routes for pedestrians and cyclists are important to allow people to find their
way around the large campus easily and safely. They are also crucial to create a
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
29
sense of connection between disparate areas of the campus. The main existing east
to west route from the East Gate to West Gate is strong and needs only
enhancement, but the important north-south routes, which link the main student
village to the centre of the campus, are poorly defined and are interrupted by various
barriers: the significant changes in level; the impermeability of the Aston Webb
Building; Pritchatts Road and, in the future, the Selly Oak New Road. It is especially
difficult to form good routes for disabled people and cyclists across these barriers.
Significant improvements are planned by bringing clarity to the main structures of the
routes and public square across campus.
7.30
As part of the Birmingham Cycle Revolution project and other investment in the
University/Hospital area, improvements to the towpath and access location have
been undertaken in 2014/15. The Canal and River Trust has improved the towpath
running through the University to enable better use of it in particular as a route for
pedestrians and cyclists. One of the most popular areas of concern raised by staff
and students is the access to the University from the canal network and in particular
by University Station. The steps are not user friendly and prevent a number of cycle
enthusiasts from using the canal network to cycle to the University. The opportunity to
provide a full ramp at the University location is not achievable. However an improved
access with less steep steps, a couple of landing areas and a wheeling ramp for
bicycles is feasible. Funding is available for this improvement and currently the
detailed design work is being prepared by the Canal and River Trust (who maintain
and manage the canal and towpath network). It is hoped that subject to this detailed
design work the access improvement at University will be completed by the end of
Summer 2015.
7.31
As part of the new hospital development a dedicated east to west cycle and
pedestrian was developed by downgrading Vincent Drive from a vehicular route from
University Station to Roman Way. The entry points at each end will be adapted to
restrict their use to foot/cycle traffic only. In addition to this a new dedicated north to
south cycle and pedestrian link was developed linking the Hospital Link Road to
Metchley Park Road adjacent to the Post Graduate Medical Centre. The majority of
this route is off road.
Walkshare Scheme
7.32
An online Walkshare Scheme has been established by the University to encourage
staff to leave the car at home and share walking, all or at least some of the way with
co-workers. The key reasoning behind this measure would be to combat concerns
about safety and promote the use of the canal network, with particular emphasis on
female staff.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
30
Led Walks
7.33
The University runs a programme of lunchtime walks that usually take place every
Thursday.
7.34
The University is exploring the potential to organise led walks for new students to
highlight all of the facilities that are in close proximity to the campus and student
residences. The walks would highlight the canal network and the close proximity to
Birmingham City Centre for example. It is felt that this would be extremely useful to
new students and in particular international students.
Cycling Measures
Target: “To increase the proportion of staff and students cycling to the University.”
7.35
The University encourages cycling to the University and benefits from good cycle
links with the surrounding area including routes to the City Centre and Selly Oak on
the canal network.
Cycle Parking Facilities
7.36
There is an ongoing project for the provision of new facilities around campus. Cycle
parking facilities are distributed at locations across the campus and current provision
is 1,450 spaces including those at the student residences. Of these spaces 61 are
secure parking and the majority of spaces are now undercover. This project is based
on a cycle parking review that was undertaken which identified areas which are a
priority for new cycle parking either because there is a demand and none currently
exist or because existing facilities are no longer fit for purpose.
7.37
In terms of secure cycle parking there is a compound by the front entrance of the
Munrow Sports Centre, access is via a pin protected gate. To register to use this
facility students visit the Munrow Sports Centre reception and present their ID cards.
There are also 21 bike lockers around campus available to hire at £4 per month on a
termly basis.
7.38
The Sustainable Travel Coordinator works with the Estates Department to ensure that
cycle parking is installed as part of any new development across campus.
Shower and Changing Facilities
7.39
A number of buildings on campus have shower and changing facilities for staff and
students who have walked or cycled to work. The Travel Plan measures include
improving the shower and changing facilities provision and projects are currently
ongoing to increase provision in buildings across the campus where feasible.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
31
7.40
The Munrow Sports Centre provides free access to its shower and changing facilities
to assist cyclist that use the 40 cycle space compound at the front of the Centre.
7.41
The Sustainable Travel Coordinator is working with the Estates Department to ensure
that shower facilities are installed as part of any new building development across
campus. New showers facilities will be incorporated into toilet refurbishments where
possible.
Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group
BUBUG is Birmingham University Bicycle User Group.
7.42
BUBUG was formed in 1992 when a group of University cyclists started asking the
University about cycle provision on campus. Since that date the group has worked
constructively with a number of staff in the Estates Office and Hospitality and
Accommodation Services to promote cycling at the University.
7.43
Since its formation the group has been involved in activities including:

Surveying cycle parking on campus and suggesting locations for additional
parking.

Promoting road safety by making cycle lights and high visibility garments
available for sale on campus.

Promoting cycle security by working with University Security staff and the West
Midlands Police.

Supporting the cycle road shows held in the Autumn term to provide advice
especially to new staff and students on cycle use on campus.

Celebrating Bike to Work week with a range of activities.

Leafleting cycles round campus to alert cyclists to forthcoming events or to
warn of the vulnerability of their cycle security equipment.

Contributing to discussions about possible improvements at the University
Station canal access point.
7.44
BUBUG and West Midlands Police sell subsidised safety and security equipment,
such as D-locks and high visibility waistcoats or long-sleeved jackets, every
Wednesday lunchtime from the Police Room in University Centre. Staff and students
are also encouraged to take their bike in to the Police Room to be security coded.
Cycling Map
7.45
A cycling map highlights the location of all cycle parking around the University and
specifies whether or not the parking is covered. The map also highlights which
University buildings have shower facilities. In addition to this the cycle routes around
campus will be indicated.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
32
Cycling Services
7.46
As a direct result of the feedback gained through the staff and student travel survey
conducted in Spring 2013 the University is currently focusing our efforts on cycling.
The following initiatives are now in place:

The Green Bike Project is a volunteer run bicycle workshop and cooperative located
on the University campus. The workshop enables staff and students to learn how to
maintain their bikes and provides tools for members to use to do this. They also hold
events including night rides every week.

Urban Cycles are currently on campus providing free bike maintenance checks,
selling accessories and secondhand bikes subject to availability. They can be found
on campus four days per week.

We are providing free bike maintenance classes and cycling lessons for staff and
students. The classes are being run by BikeRight in conjunction with Centro under
the Local Sustainable Transport Fund (LSTF) Smarter Network Smarter Choices
project.

We are striving to encourage safer travel on and around campus by selling
subsidised lights, hi-vis jackets and d-locks to staff and students. All of these items
are available from the Police Room in University Centre Security Reception.
7.47
The University has received a grant from Centro as part of its Smarter Network
Smarter Choices project and this will be used to establish a termly student bike hire
scheme. This will be launched during Welcome Week 2014 and will initially provide
18 bikes for hire.
Cycle Scheme
7.48
The University operates the cycle salary sacrifice scheme Cyclescheme which is the
UK's number one provider of tax-free bikes for the Government's Cycle to Work
initiative. University employees can save up to 36% on the cost of a bike and safety
equipment through the partnership between the University and CycleScheme. So far
nearly 200 staff have bought bikes through the scheme .
Cycle Hire Scheme
7.49
The University launched a student bicycle hire scheme in 2014. This will be on-going
and provide students 9 month hire of bikes and locks.
Bike Maintenance Classes
7.50
As part of its active lifestyle programme the University holds beginner bike
maintenance classes at the Munrow Sports Centre. The sessions guide attendees
through basic bike maintenance, detailing how to check that the bike is safe to ride
and in good working order, how to fix a puncture and replace inner tubes, how to
adjust brakes and gears and much more.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
33
Public Transport Measures
Target: “To increase the proportion of staff and students travelling to the University by
bus and train.”
7.51
The University benefits from an excellent public transport infrastructure especially
because of having its own railway station and frequent bus services that directly
serve the campus.
Personal journey planners such as:
http://www.networkwestmidlands.com/journeyPlanner/journeyPlanner_home.aspx are
also promoted to individuals considering using public transport.
7.52
National Express West Midlands provide an app for customers to find live information
on the local bus services. This app is advertised on the University’s Sustainable
Travel webpages.
7.53
National Express West Midlands provide a free leaflet entitled ‘Getting to and from
the University of Birmingham’ which is to be circulated across the Halls of Residence
and via web portals. It provides information on all the NXWM bus routes that serve
the University as well as information on how and where to obtain student passes.
University Station
7.54
The University of Birmingham is the only UK University to have its own railway station
on campus, known as ‘University Station’. This is the second busiest station on the
Cross-City line after Birmingham New Street, with over 2 million passengers using the
station every year. Having its own train station on campus, makes travel to the
University by train a convenient option particularly for those who live in areas served
by the Cross City Line which runs from Lichfield to Redditch and for others who use
services to Bromsgrove and Worcester. Regular services run from University Station
to Birmingham New Street where staff students and visitors can catch trains to
locations all across the country. The journey between the University and Birmingham
New Street takes approximately 8 minutes.
7.55
The Station is a real asset for the University and its role in the Travel Plan to increase
staff, students and visitors to travel by train to the University is vital. There are a
number of external activities that have recently been developed or are on the horizon
which will enhance the Station further:

The new hospital development included improvements to this area at the
interface of the hospital and university estates. As part of the hospital
development a high quality public transport interchange has been provided
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
34
adjacent to the University Station. The interchange has showcase bus stops with
real time traffic information.

University Station is the arrival point for large numbers of people coming to the
University and would benefit from refurbishment. London Midland and Centro
have received funding from the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise
Partnership to expand the Station during 2015/16. The University is working with
relevant parties to enable this development.

In addition to this Centro and London Midland are working towards the
introduction of public transport smart cards and tickets on demand.
7.56
As part of the Cycle Revolution Birmingham City Council will be installing a Cycle Hub
next to the Station to improve the cycling parking facilities at the Station and help to
avoid cyclists locking their bikes to the railings outside the Station. The Hub is due to
be installed in 2014 and will give a secure facility providing 30 parking spaces via
smart card access.
7.57
The University in conjunction with London Midland has recently installed a ticket
vending machines on campus to avoid users having to queue to purchase tickets at
the Station which can often be extremely busy. Over 3,000 transactions were made in
the first 8 weeks of the machine going live and there are discussions underway for
the potential to have a second machine on campus.
Free Bus Travel
7.58
Staff and students benefit from free bus travel between the Edgbaston campus and
the Selly Oak campus. The Selly Shuttle bus service provides a link between the
Barber Institute to the Selly Oak Campus, with one stop at the Munrow Sports Centre
and is a free service on production of student or staff ID cards.
Season Ticket Loans
7.59
The University offers interest free season ticket loans through its Corporate
TravelWise membership to benefit those members of staff who use public transport to
travel to work. The University purchases a West Midlands Travel or Centro annual
season ticket on the member of staff’s behalf, and then recovers the cost through
salary deductions over a ten month period.
7.60
An improved discount of 25% for staff purchasing a regional National Express West
Midlands bus travel card was introduced in April 2012 with joint funding from National
Express and the University.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
35
Real Time Information
7.61
The University has a plasma screen in its main Centre to provide real time bus
information to staff and students. In addition to this the Travel Plan promotes tools
such as the National Rail Enquiries live departure board and other means of easy
access to real time information including mobile Apps.
Motorcycling Measures
Target: “To increase the proportion of staff motorcycling to the University.”
7.62
The University will consider increasing the provision of motorcycle parking spaces.
There are a few areas around campus where motorcyclists tend to park however
more formal areas of parking may be provided. Motorcyclists benefit from free car
parking on campus. A new motorbike users group has been established with its own
web site.
Car Sharing
Target: “To increase the proportion of staff and students sharing their journey to the
University.”
7.63
For some people travelling by car really is the only option, and in recognition of this
the University has partnered with Liftshare.com to launch a new scheme called UB
Liftshare. Launched in February 2014, UB Liftshare enables staff and students to
search for potential car sharing matches in order to split travel costs, save on fuel and
parking fees, and minimise their environmental impact.
7.64
The scheme is free to use and available to anyone with a University of Birmingham
email address. Upon registering your details UB Liftshare will supply a list of potential
matches for you to make contact with and set up a car-share arrangement.
7.65
In addition the following measures have been adopted to increase the number of car
sharers:

The development of a separate University branded car share page for staff and
students.

Holding a ‘matchmaker’ event where people can meet potential car share
partners in a safe and organised environment before making the decision to car
share.
7.66
The feasibility of providing priority parking spaces closest to building entrances for car
sharers has been investigated but discounted. This measure would not be feasible
due to the nature of the University campus, it would be impossible to provide priority
spaces that would give all users a convenient car parking space due to the layout of
the campus buildings in relation to car parks.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
36
Business Travel
Fleet Vehicles
7.67
The University has 98 University lease vehicles in its fleet which are used to
undertake University business. The range of vehicles is extremely diverse and
includes 7.5 tonne lorries; a JCB; 4x4 vehicles, Ford Focus’ and Toyota Prius’.
7.68
The University fleet is recognised as being one of the most sustainable in the country
with over 20% of the fleet being fully electric. A commitment that Electric Vehicles will
be the first option when replacement is due will increase percentage to 40% by 2020.
A vehicle management system calculates emissions data ensuring that the fleet is
fully utilised and appropriate changes can be made..
7.69
Following an Energy Saving Trust review, the University implemented changes to
reduce the carbon footprint in transport terms (Scope 1 emissions) and the University
in partnership with the Trust will undertake annual monitoring and be eligible for a
gold, silver or bronze award depending on its annual savings.
Hire Cars
7.70
The University currently hires 2,000 cars every year for staff members to utilise for
business travel. The cars are hired from four major suppliers worldwide and can be
booked through an online booking system that supports the Transport department.
When a member of staff applies to the Transport Team to hire a car they will be
encouraged to use alternative modes of travel where possible.
Alternative Fuels
Electric Vehicles
7.71
Electric vehicles are a more efficient way of converting fossil fuels into mechanical
energy The University has fifteen electric vehicles that are used for a combination of
purposes.
7.72
The University has encouraged Electric Vehicles by raising awareness holding events
giving employees driving opportunities. Fleet drivers are given training on operating
the vehicles and feedback is regularly reviewed. As a result, both emissions and
accidents have reduced on campus.
7.73
The University has installed 3 Vehicle Electric charging points across campus that
can be used free of charge by staff’s personal vehicles as well as the University Fleet.
This not only complements the University’s own research into alternative fuels and
novel vehicle technology but also acts to stimulate interest in the uptake of electric
vehicles as a whole. A policy is also in place to allow staff free parking for Electric
Vehicles. It is anticipated that the conveniently located charging points will meet the
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
37
initial needs of electric vehicles coming on to the University campus and enhance the
continually expanding UK network of electric vehicle charging points.
7.74
The University of Birmingham is committed to reducing carbon emissions and this
project is a first step integration into the University’s infrastructure. It will immediately
benefit all forms of electric vehicle transport thus encouraging the growth of electric
vehicles on and off campus. Free access and convenience are seen as key factors in
persuading drivers to switch from traditional combustion engine vehicles to lower
carbon emission forms of transport such as electric vehicles.
Hydrogen Vehicles
7.75
The University has hydrogen powered cars as part of a research project. The cars are
powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, which is pollution free, virtually silent in operation
and can travel up to 100 miles on a full tank of hydrogen at speeds up to 50 miles per
hour.
7.76
The vehicles, designed and built by Microcab Ltd, are being used in a study by the
University’s School of Chemical Engineering to assess the viability of hydrogen in
transport applications. An application has been made for European funding to obtain
a further 10 Hydrogen Vehicles. They will be compared with the campus fleet of
petrol, diesel and pure electric vehicles so that researchers can learn about their
efficiency, performance and how they can be adapted in order to make hydrogen an
attractive and cost effective option as a future fuel
7.77
The University has its own hydrogen gas fuelling station. The Air Products Series 100
fuelling station is situated at the University’s Department of Chemical Engineering
where research projects are being carried out to ascertain the viability of hydrogen in
transport applications as part of Birmingham’s Science City hydrogen energy project .
7.78
The University also has a zero-emission hydrogen hybrid canal boat that uses a
combination of magnet and fuel cell technologies. The boat, named the Ross Barlow,
is fully operational and demonstrates how ‘hydrogen hybrid’ propulsion could be used
to power other inland waterway craft.
Fuel Efficient Driving
7.79
The Transport Services department send their drivers on a compulsory ‘Fuel Efficient
Driving’ course.
Residential Travel Plan Measures
7.80
The University has introduced a range of measures and initiatives that are designed
to reduce the need for students to travel by car. These measures actively support
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
38
student occupants of the Halls of Residence to adopt sustainable modes of transport
and in particular promote a healthy lifestyle by encouraging walking and cycling.
7.81
The implementation and review of these measures is the responsibility of the
Sustainable Travel Co-ordinator in conjunction with the University’s Sustainable
Travel Steering Group.
7.82 The range of initiatives that promote sustainable travel for students at residential sites
are summarised below and detailed fully in the following section of the Travel Plan:

Student discounts on public transport, the local bus transport provider, National
Express West Midlands attend Welcome Week to promote the benefits of
student bus passes which provide unlimited travel each term from £1.01 per day.

Frequent shuttle bus services operate throughout the day (8am – 7pm) to link the
main Edgbaston and Selly oak campuses. The local bus services (98 and 99)
that pass near to the Halls of Residences are promoted as an alternative to the
shuttle buses.

Travel Information (timetables, Centro leaflets, travel guides, walking and cycling
maps, route planners etc.) is readily available around campus and at the Student
Residences.

The University Bicycle Users Group (BUBUG) provide a wide range of support
and advice for cyclists with respect to buying a bike, learning to ride, local cycle
routes, security and safety.

Urban Cycles are on campus four days a week providing free maintenance
checks.

Cycle parking is provided at all residential sites with some having their own
secure covered store. Cycle parking facilities are regularly audited and reviewed
to ensure sufficient and appropriate facilities are available.

Residents are provided with broadband (Wi-Fi is also soon to be introduced) for
easy access to information to reduce the need to travel and assist students to
study from their own accommodation.

University Student App has a section on travel.

A discounted taxi fare structure for students has been established with a locally
approved taxi company.
The above initiatives are promoted via various electronic media including web portals (e.g.
Sustainable Travel website), Twitter, Facebook and during Welcome Week activities.
8. Objectives, Targets & Monitoring
8.1
A Travel Plan should be viewed as a living document with a continuous cycle of
action-monitoring-review. To help give the Travel Plan a direction objectives and
targets need to be established. Objectives set out the overall aims of the Travel Plan
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
39
at a broad level, whilst targets set measurable goals, which help to assess whether or
not the objectives have been achieved.
Objectives
8.2
The main objectives of the University’s Travel Plan are:

Reduce unnecessary vehicle usage by staff, students and visitors;

Promote the use of more sustainable methods of transport by staff, students
and visitors;

Reduce the proportion of staff, students and visitors parking at the University;

Contribute to the promotion of personal health and wellbeing;

Encourage the use of more sustainable modes of transport for work-related
journeys; and

Reduce the environmental impact of traffic associated with the University.
Targets
8.3
In terms of setting targets for a travel plan best practice would normally be to
establish a baseline starting point through travel survey results. However the staff and
student travel surveys that were undertaken in 2008 generated a low response rate
with only 24% staff and 12% of students responding. It is crucial to have a robust
baseline and therefore the survey data have been supplemented by data on the
average number of cars parking at the Edgbaston campus in 2008. These figures
take into account pay and display car parking and swipe access. It is these figures
that the Travel Plan will be monitored against and further travel surveys will also
assist to monitor behavioural patterns.
8.4
From a 2009-2010 baseline by 2015 the Travel Plan aims to achieve a 5% reduction
in the proportion of staff and student single occupancy journeys to, between and from
all University sites by:

Increasing the proportion of staff and students walking and/or cycling to the
University;

Increasing the proportion of staff and students using public transport to access
the University;
8.5

Increase the proportion of staff car sharing to the University; and

Managing the demand for car parking at the University.
The 2013 travel survey results highlight that a reduction of 4.4% has been achieved
since 2009.
8.5
In addition to this the Travel Plan’s longer term targets include:
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
40

Assessing all business travel by mileage;

Reducing the proportion of work-related travel claims that are associated with
car and air journeys; and

Setting targets based on a reduction in CO2 emissions rather than car trips.
Monitoring and Review Mechanisms
8.6
There is a need to establish a mechanism to regular monitor and review the Travel
Plan in order to measure its success against set targets. The monitoring measures
outlined below will incorporate both the collection of ‘hard’ analytical data and ‘soft’
data in the form of general feedback and correspondence:

Undertake regular travel surveys to monitor changes in travel patterns
compared to previous surveys;

Monitor, jointly with the Security Team, the cars parked on campus;

Monitor the registration to the car sharing scheme;

Monitor the uptake of the discounted public transport season tickets;

Monitoring the uptake of the CycleScheme;

Monitor the level of usage of the cycle parking facilities to establish demand;

Monitor feedback from the bus operators to establish the level of demand for
the subsidised bus services; and

Record comments received from staff, students and visitors relating to the
operation and implications of the Travel Plan.
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
41
9. Action Plan
Action Plan
9.1
The following Action Plan sets out the proposed Travel Plan targets accompanied by
the University’s existing sustainable travel initiatives and proposed measures that
could be considered to aid their achievement and the approximate cost of the
measures.
9.2
The Action Plan sets out the resources that have been identified to date to enable
implementation of the Plan.
Key to Action Plan
STPSG - Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group
STG – Sustainable Task Group
STC - Sustainable Travel Coordinator
SEA - Sustainability and Environmental Advisor
HAS – Hospitality and Accommodation Services
HR – Human Resources
BUBUG – Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group
BCC – Birmingham City Council
CSTG – Campus Safe Transport Group
EDF – Estates Development Framework
Travel Plan updated August 2014 by:
Caroline Radnor (Sustainable Travel Co-ordinator)
University of Birmingham Sustainable Travel Plan 2010-15 (updated June 2015)
42
Area
Objective
Identify current modes
of travel for
comparison with
targets and baselines
to assist in further
informing and
developing the Travel
Plan.
Commuting
Raise awareness and
promote Travel Plan
initiatives
Means
Ownership
Status
Timescale/
deadline
Undertake an online travel survey of
both staff and students.
Survey held
between 18th Feb
and 31st March
Employ a Travel Survey Officer to
assist in the marketing, promotion
and statistical analysis of the survey.
Travel survey of both staff
and students
Analyse the carbon
footprint for Scope 3
reporting purposes
Identify staff
commuting routes
Marketing and
Communication
Action
Liaise with University Hospitals
Birmingham (UHB) and Women’s
Hospital to comprise a jointly
compatible travel survey.
STC & UHB
Sustainable Travel Publicity
Campaign
Map staff and student postcodes via
GIS and share information with UHB,
National Express and Centro.
Communications
ongoing
Currently assisting
UHB with a further
survey Summer
2014
Exchange and compare information
on key findings from the survey with
Birmingham City Council and Centro
and link into LSTF.
Map and analyse current
routes travelled by
commuters and cross
reference with local travel
services
Reports
completed June
2013
STPSG
Staff postcodes
collected and GIS
expertise sourced
from academic
dept.
Completed
June 2013
Public transport
maps obtained
from Centro
Implement a new publicity campaign
to promote sustainable travel
initiatives to both staff and students.
Revise pocket Travel Guide for
circulation to all staff and
students.
Revise Smartmover logo
Promote initiatives and
discounts, via induction
sessions, Wellbeing Days,
departmental newsletters
STC
Developed in
conjunction with
Design and
Publications plus
Marketing and
Communication
Depts.
Ongoing –
Pocket Guide
and new logo
measures
completed
Key: STPSG – Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group, STG- Sustainable Task group, STC- Sustainable Travel Coordinator, SEA- Sustainability & Environmental Advisor, HAS- Hospitality &
Accommodation Services, BUBUG- Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group, CSTG- Campus Safe Transport Group, BCC- Birmingham City Council, EDF- Estates Development Framework
43
Area
Objective
Action
Means
Ownership
Status
STC
Travel champions
have been
nominated for
Corporate
Services and the
majority of
Colleges
Timescale/
deadline
Link real time travel information
into University main web portals.
Post messages on staff and
student portals.
Staff magazine (BUZZ) and
online monthly newsletter (BUZZ
Bitesize)
Marketing and
Communication
(cont.)
Raise awareness and
promote Travel Plan
initiatives
(cont.)
Travel Champions
University Environment Day /
Go Green Week events
Student accommodation
information
Social networking sites
Establish a network of travel
champions to help communicate and
promote a broad range of travel
issues and initiatives relating to
cycling, public transport, walking, car
parking, car share and salary
sacrifice schemes.
Invite key external travel partners
including Centro, Birmingham City
Council, Sustrans and NXWM to
actively participate and promote joint
travel initiatives at these events.
Review and revise information
supplied to new students within
accommodation literature on travel
options.
Promote initiatives via the University
of Birmingham Facebook page
Bi-monthly
meetings
ongoing
Working with the
Colleges and
remaining
Corporate
Services to fill the
gaps
STC
Annually at the
start of each
academic year
STC & HAS
Accommodation
Manager
Under review
STC
Started June 2012
Format and date
of the next
University wide
Environment
Day is under
review.
Completed
August 2013
Ongoing
Key: STPSG – Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group, STG- Sustainable Task group, STC- Sustainable Travel Coordinator, SEA- Sustainability & Environmental Advisor, HAS- Hospitality &
Accommodation Services, BUBUG- Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group, CSTG- Campus Safe Transport Group, BCC- Birmingham City Council, EDF- Estates Development Framework
44
Area
Objective
Action
Means
Ownership
Status
Timescale/
deadline
Potential for a Sustainable Travel
Twitter account
Establish a Campus Safe Transport
Group to assess and improve safety
on the University’s road network,
cycling and pedestrian routes.
Marketing and
Communication
(cont.)
Promote safe travel on
campus
Raise awareness and
promote Travel Plan
initiatives
(cont.)
Initiate a safe travel campaign to sit
under the Smart mover branding to
be launched in conjunction with the
sustainable travel campaign to
include production of web page and a
UB Safe Travel video for cyclists,
pedestrians & drivers ‘Travel Around
Safe and Sound’ to promote
advantages of ‘shared’ spaces where
no one has preference.
Completed
March 2012
Group meetings
ongoing
Completed
UB Safe
Campaign
ongoing
CSTG/Security
Improve navigation and search tools,
assess feasibility of a link on the front
page.
STC
Discuss with IT
Services
Ongoing
Travel website
Revise and update content plus
transfer pages to new UoB Intranet
site and retain same address i.e.
www.bham.ac.uk/travel as an alias
STC
Revision started
June 2012
Ongoing
Academic Colleges
Liaise with colleges and their
environmental groups to encourage
the adoption of sustainable travel as
a regular agenda item.
STC
Establishment of a
group of Travel
Champions.
Ongoing
University website
Amend directions and Google maps
to show locations of facilities such as
cycle lockers and regularly update to
reflect changes
Key: STPSG – Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group, STG- Sustainable Task group, STC- Sustainable Travel Coordinator, SEA- Sustainability & Environmental Advisor, HAS- Hospitality &
Accommodation Services, BUBUG- Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group, CSTG- Campus Safe Transport Group, BCC- Birmingham City Council, EDF- Estates Development Framework
45
Area
Objective
Action
Staff/student inductions
Welcome Week
Wellbeing days
Open days
Reducing the
need to travel
Reduce the need to
travel
Video- conferencing & teleconferencing
Flexible working & working
from home policy
Means
Participate at central staff induction
courses /sessions and include travel
literature in induction packs.
Attend the Welcome Week sessions
for new students.
Attend individual academic colleges
and Corporate Services Wellbeing
days.
Promote to prospective students the
travel benefits of the University e.g.
own train station and regular local
bus services
Promote the new fixed 6-seater
video-conference suite which is
equipped with large monitors. Up to 4
remote venues can be connected to
simultaneously.
Review policy following outcome of
travel survey
Ownership
Status
Timescale/
deadline
STC & SEA
Monthly
Ongoing
STC
Annually
Ongoing
STC
Held throughout
the year
Ongoing
STC
Approved
September 2012
onwards
Learning
Resources and
Accommodation
Team (LRAT)
Include in
campaigns and on
travel webpages
Ongoing
HR
Discussion
needed with HR
based on travel
survey results
Ongoing
STC, Estates,
WM Police,
CSTG &
Sports
Raised at
induction sessions
and via Travel
webpages
Ongoing
Initiatives and inducements include:



Walking to the
University
Increase the number of
people walking to the
University for
sustainable or health
benefits
Introduce and monitor a
range of initiatives to
encourage people to walk



Improved network of signed,
well lit pedestrian pathways
Provision of free personal
alarms
Pocket sized walking maps
highlighting routes around
campus and the local area
Participation in Walk to
Work Week events
Work with the Security team
and West Midlands Police to
improve perceptions of
campus safety
In line with the Estates
Development Framework
where possible new
Key: STPSG – Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group, STG- Sustainable Task group, STC- Sustainable Travel Coordinator, SEA- Sustainability & Environmental Advisor, HAS- Hospitality &
Accommodation Services, BUBUG- Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group, CSTG- Campus Safe Transport Group, BCC- Birmingham City Council, EDF- Estates Development Framework
46
Area
Objective
Ownership
Status
Timescale/
deadline
University of Birmingham App to
integrate with Walking.com
STC, STPSG
Under
development with
various
colleagues around
the University inc.
IT Innovation
Centre
On-going
Liaise with Birmingham City Council
through the Cycle Revolution
STC/Estates/
BCC
Improvements
made to canal
towpath
On-going
BUBUG
Established
On-going
Action
Means

Develop a programme of
themed walking trails around
campus
Cycling to the
University
Increase the proportion
of staff and students
cycling to the
University
Consider options for
introducing more local cycle
routes
Active bicycle users group
(BUBUG)
Regular Dr Bike Cycling
Roadshows
pedestrian routes will be
formed to strengthen links
between the University and
surrounding areas.
Liaise with Sport’s Thrive
Team for advice on
University organised walks,
exercise, health and fitness
Website & forum promoted at events,
bike roadshows, inductions etc.
Urban Cycles are on campus 4 days
per week providing Dr Bike services
to all staff and students – cycle check
and basic parts free of charge. Also
the sale of accessories and second
hand bikes subject to availability.
STC
Varying
frequency, Urban
Cycles on campus
4 days a week
On-going
Key: STPSG – Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group, STG- Sustainable Task group, STC- Sustainable Travel Coordinator, SEA- Sustainability & Environmental Advisor, HAS- Hospitality &
Accommodation Services, BUBUG- Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group, CSTG- Campus Safe Transport Group, BCC- Birmingham City Council, EDF- Estates Development Framework
47
Area
Objective
Action
Cycling Lessons and Bike
Maintenance Classes
Events
Means
Delivered to University staff and
students free of charge by BikeRight
as part of the LSTF Centro Smarter
Choices Smarter Network project.
Ownership
STC
Bike to Work Week
STC
Cycling to the
University
(cont.)
Increase the proportion
of staff and students
cycling to the
University
(cont.)
Good coverage of cycle
parking facilities
Free shower and changing
facilities
Cycle repair kits
Salary sacrifice scheme
Cyclescheme
Additional cycle parking facilities
installed. Approximately 320 new
spaces since 2009. Includes a secure
40 space compound, 21 cycle lockers
plus the majority of new spaces are
sheltered
Improved and additional shower and
changing facilities. Facilities are
incorporated during refurbishments
where possible. Free access to
shower facilities at Munrow Sports
Centre
Status
Timescale/
deadline
On-going every
Monday evening
until demand
ceases
Available until
April 2016
Next event cycle
to work day in
September 2015
Annually
26% increase in
cycle parking
places since
2009.
On-going
STC & Estates
More new facilities
including cycle
lockers to be
installed – funded
by charging for
existing lockers.
STC & Estates
13 new shower
facilities have
been introduced in
the last 2/3 years
On-going
Assess feasibility of installing cycle
pumps and repair kits at several
locations on the main campus
STC & HAS
Assessing options
Discussions ongoing
Allows staff to save money on the
purchase cost of a new bike
HR
659 staff
applications to
date
On-going
Key: STPSG – Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group, STG- Sustainable Task group, STC- Sustainable Travel Coordinator, SEA- Sustainability & Environmental Advisor, HAS- Hospitality &
Accommodation Services, BUBUG- Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group, CSTG- Campus Safe Transport Group, BCC- Birmingham City Council, EDF- Estates Development Framework
48
Area
Objective
Action
Maps travel related facilities
Cycle hire scheme
Pool bikes
Sale of safety/security
equipment
Motorcycling
Public Transport
Support those who
travel to the University
by motorcycle
Increase the number of
people travelling to the
University by public
transport
Free parking
Means
Electronic ‘google’ map highlighting
cycle parking on campus, shower
and changing facilities and cycle
routes around campus and the local
area
Student bike hire scheme to
commence in September 2014 in
partnership with Urban Cycles –
funded via a grant from Cento (18
bikes available initially – expand if
successful and funding available)
Explore the potential to provide
departments with pool bikes.
Sales of subsidised d-locks and lights
may be purchased from Security
Reception Monday to Friday 9am to
5pm
Establish a motorcycle users group
Provide a dedicated web page
Timescale/
deadline
Ownership
Status
STC
Google map
available May
2012
STC, Urban
Cycles
16 bikes hired
Ongoing
STC
First pool bike has
been allocated.
Ongoing
STC, BUBUG &
Security
Ongoing
Ongoing
STC, HAS &
Estates
Webpage
established
Launched
March 2013
Completed
January 2013
Provision of free motorcycle parking
spaces
Completed
Completed June
2013
Live travel information
Provide link from main web portals
STC & Centro
Promote initiatives to
encourage staff to try public
transport instead of their car
Car swap challenge schemes (e.g.
Network West Midlands) that also
provide goody bags on receipt of
feedback form
Centro, BBC +
STC
x20 people
applied July 2012
Ongoing
Promotional material
National Express West Midlands to
provide free bus travel leaflets
NXWM + STC
NXWM travelling
to UoB leaflet
produced
September 2012
NXWM leaflet
revised June
2015
Key: STPSG – Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group, STG- Sustainable Task group, STC- Sustainable Travel Coordinator, SEA- Sustainability & Environmental Advisor, HAS- Hospitality &
Accommodation Services, BUBUG- Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group, CSTG- Campus Safe Transport Group, BCC- Birmingham City Council, EDF- Estates Development Framework
49
Area
Objective
Action
Improve bus coverage in the
local area
Public Transport
(cont.)
Increase the number of
people travelling to the
University by public
transport
(cont.)
Interest free loans for public
transport season tickets
Swiftcard
Means
Liaise with National Express West
Midlands on potential improvements
to local bus service/s, for getting to
and from the University plus
signage/branding on new bus service
(99) to University of Birmingham.
Undertake a review of University and
UHB staff postcodes and work with
local transport operators in particular
working with National Express West
Midlands to identify whether
services/routes can be improved.
In partnership with National Express
West Midlands the University offers a
25% discount on annual bus passes
to all staff
Liaise with Centro regarding the
feasibility of using the SWIFT smart
card on local public transport. For
example loading points for business
travel.
Status
Timescale/
deadline
2 new bus
services
introduced (98 +
99) in 2012 which
serve Halls of
Residence plus
Edgbaston and
Selly Oak
Campus
99 bus service
branded as
serving
University of
Birmingham
STC & Finance
Completed and
uptake being
monitored
April 2012
onwards
(good take up to
date)
STC & Centro
Under discussion
Ongoing
Ownership
STC, STPSG &
UHB
Introduce specific route bus
passes
Review feasibility with NXWM
STC & MXWM
Reviewed March
2013
Not currently a
viable option,
review ongoing
Reduce the cost of student
public transport season
tickets
Work in partnership with NXWM to
assess options for further reducing
the cost of student season tickets
HAS & NXWM
Under discussion
Ongoing
STC + Marketing
&
Communication
Updating publicity
material
Ongoing
HAS & STC
Monitor and
review
effectiveness of
services
Ongoing
Promote benefits of personal
journey planners
Provision of shuttle buses
Provide links to journey planners
covering West Midlands area travel
e.g.
http://www.networkwestmidlands.com
/journeyPlanner/journeyPlanner_hom
e.aspx
A free shuttle bus service operates
between the Edgbaston and Selly
Oak campus.
Key: STPSG – Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group, STG- Sustainable Task group, STC- Sustainable Travel Coordinator, SEA- Sustainability & Environmental Advisor, HAS- Hospitality &
Accommodation Services, BUBUG- Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group, CSTG- Campus Safe Transport Group, BCC- Birmingham City Council, EDF- Estates Development Framework
50
Area
Objective
Action
Develop good working
relationships with local
partners
Means
Close links with Birmingham City
Council, Centro, London Midland and
National Express
Assess options for Smart/Oyster
cards
Public Transport
(cont.)
Increase the number of
people travelling to the
University by public
transport (cont.)
Introduce quicker systems to
obtain tickets
Improve University Station
facilities – Expansion to
University Station
Car Sharing
Business Travel
Increase the number of
people car sharing to
the University
Reduce the carbon
footprint generated
from business activities
Join a new carshare scheme
and introduce incentives.
Increase the number of fuel
efficient vehicles in its fleet
(hydrogen & electric) and
available to hire
New Centro funded train ticket
machine to be installed at University
Centre. Further ticket machine to be
installed at Medical School as part of
the Station refurbishment.
Centro and London Midland have
received funding to expand the
Station
Establish a new University branded
car share scheme with a national
company – UB Liftshare
Undertake an assessment of current
fleet and recommend options for
replacing with more fuel efficient
options and introduce a Vehicle
Selection Strategy
Ownership
Status
Timescale/
deadline
STC
Established
Ongoing
STC, HAS &
Centro
STC, Estates &
Centro
Assessing options
with local
transport
providers
Station works
begin 2016
Ongoing
2016
STC, Estates,
Centro & London
Midland
Negotiations re
University land
currently
underway
Work begins
2016
STPSG & HAS
Scheme
launched in
February 2014
(135 members)
Limited number
of sharers,
needs further
publicising
STC & Transport
Fleet vehicles
reduced from 116
to 98 (2008-15)
Ongoing
Hire vehicles
Reduce the number of cars hired
annually for business purposes
Transport
2,000 reduction:
from 3,500 to
1,500 (2008-15)
Ongoing
Provide fuel efficient driving
training course for University
employed drivers
Organised by University Transport
Manager
Transport
Undertaken
Ongoing
Key: STPSG – Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group, STG- Sustainable Task group, STC- Sustainable Travel Coordinator, SEA- Sustainability & Environmental Advisor, HAS- Hospitality &
Accommodation Services, BUBUG- Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group, CSTG- Campus Safe Transport Group, BCC- Birmingham City Council, EDF- Estates Development Framework
51
Area
Objective
Business Travel
Means
Ownership
Promote alternative modes
of travel for business use
Travel Plan + guide, events,
campaigns, newsletters, websites
etc.
STC & Transport
Salary sacrifice schemes
Implement a Fuel Efficient Salary
Lease Scheme
STC, Transport
& Finance
Scheme launched
October 2014
Discussions
ongoing
STC, SEA
& Guild
Good working
relationships
developed
Ongoing
improvement


Partnership
Working
Establish good links
with the University’s
partners and key
stakeholders

Develop close working
relationships and engage on
a regular basis




Environmental Association
of Universities and Colleges
(EAUC)
Birmingham TravelWise
membership University
campus maps on Travel
wise website
Local universities working
group
University Hospital NHS
Foundation Trust
Guild of Students
Finance
University Conferencing and
Events Office
Status
Timescale/
deadline
Action
Ongoing
University environmental task groups
.
Improve CCTV coverage around
campus.
General Measures
Maximise success of
the Travel Plan
Make safety improvements
to the campus
CCTV provision under review for
potential upgrading following an
assessment of a camera by camera
operational requirement.
STC & Security
Assessments
September 2015
Long term
migration to new
system
2015/2017
Key: STPSG – Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group, STG- Sustainable Task group, STC- Sustainable Travel Coordinator, SEA- Sustainability & Environmental Advisor, HAS- Hospitality &
Accommodation Services, BUBUG- Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group, CSTG- Campus Safe Transport Group, BCC- Birmingham City Council, EDF- Estates Development Framework
52
Area
Objective
Action
Means
Explore the potential to enhance the
use of the canal towpath for walking
& cycling
General Measures
Ownership
Status
Timescale/
deadline
STC, Sustrans &
British
Waterways
On-going
discussions
Long term (1-2
years)
STC &
TravelWise
Promoting
Network West
Midlands journey
planner
On-going
promotion
STC, Finance &
suppliers
Procurement
under discussion
e.g. with
stationery
suppliers
On-going
STPSG, STC,
HAS, Estates
and BCC
Daily rate
encourages
adoption of
alternative more
sustainable
modes of travel
where possible
STPSG/HAS
3 parking bays
STC & Estates
Improvements
undertaken
2009-12
Other
Personalised journey planning
Consolidation of suppliers deliveries
Maintain a daily pay-as-you-go option
Car Parking
Improve the management
and control of car parking
facilities
Introduce Electric Charging Bays
Improve lines, signage, lighting and
surfaces
On-going
Review
December 2015
On-going review
Key: STPSG – Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group, STG- Sustainable Task group, STC- Sustainable Travel Coordinator, SEA- Sustainability & Environmental Advisor, HAS- Hospitality &
Accommodation Services, BUBUG- Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group, CSTG- Campus Safe Transport Group, BCC- Birmingham City Council, EDF- Estates Development Framework
53
Area
Objective
Car Parking
Reduce the number of
people driving to the
University
Action
Means
Ownership
Status
Timescale/
deadline
Stricter enforcement of car parks
including the employment of x4
University Security Traffic Control
Officers (TCOs), financial penalties
are now levied on offenders if they
contravene the University’s Traffic
Regulations.
STPSG, STC,
HAS
Completed
September 2011
onwards
STPSG, HAS
Implementing
September 2015
STPSG
On-going
On-going
HAS
On-going
Due Sept 2016
Implement charging on the peripheral
areas of car parking Pritchatts Pk and
Vale residences and Selly Oak
campus
Constrain Estates Development
Framework to current level of car
parking spaces
Enforce and manage a ‘Short-stay’
Car Park on the forthcoming Sports
Centre
Key: STPSG – Sustainable Travel Plan Steering Group, STG- Sustainable Task group, STC- Sustainable Travel Coordinator, SEA- Sustainability & Environmental Advisor, HAS- Hospitality &
Accommodation Services, BUBUG- Birmingham University Bicycle Users Group, CSTG- Campus Safe Transport Group, BCC- Birmingham City Council, EDF- Estates Development Framework
54
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