Environmental Strategy
As part of the strategic objectives and aims outlined in the Strategic Plan the College aims to
ensure financial strength through relentless review and upgrade of risk management, value for
money, sustainability and investment appraisal. College targets for the year include
environmental requirements include reducing the carbon footprint by 2% in 2015/16 and
ensuring 0% of waste is sent to land fill.
This environmental policy incorporates the following:
Aims and Objectives
Carbon Management Scheme
Green Travel Plan
Environmental Plan
College targets
Risk Assessment
Introduction
Halesowen College recognises the importance of environmental development and the crucial
role environmental performance has in achieving sustainability. Therefore the College has
developed an environmental strategy.
Climate change is one of the most significant challenges facing all organisations with carbon
dioxide one of the main contributing causes. Halesowen College recognises the scale and
speed of climate change, and its potential adverse effect on the economy, environment and
local community. Therefore as a College operating within the heart of the West Midlands
Halesowen College aims to develop a Carbon Management Plan.
The College has already started to meet the targets of reducing CO2 emissions over the
coming years and has ensured all recent capital schemes have had a positive impact on the
environment.
As defined in the Strategic Plan the College is committed to developing sustainable practices
that will continue to demonstrate the commitment to reduce carbon emissions and remain
efficient and effective in all operations.
Aims and Objectives
The overarching aims and objectives are as follows:
Reduce carbon emissions by at least 10% by 2020 ( college target 2% in 2015/16)
Maintain the amount of waste sent to landfill at 0%
Develop links with the carbon trust and launch a formal carbon management plan
Implement the programme of LED lighting
Convert all IT hardware to environmentally positive kit
Reduce paper consumption by 20% by the development of digital systems
Explore environmental accreditation
Further educate staff and students thus raising the profile of the environmental agenda
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Improve building efficiency
Increase biodiversity on the site
Reconsider alternative sources of energy
Promote and develop green travel
Carbon Management Scheme
This Carbon Management Plan sets out the College’s strategy and action plan for reducing
carbon emissions over the next five years. It identifies the tangible and intangible benefits of
Carbon Management and describes the management and governance arrangements to keep
the programme on track. The College has already implemented many successful
environmental initiatives and wishes to continue to build on this success.
Wider Case for Action
There is a range of reasons for the College to take action on carbon. These include:
Legislative compliance
Energy cost savings
Corporate social responsibility
Ofsted reporting
Community partnerships
It will encourage resource efficiency and therefore direct cost savings by reducing energy
consumption and harmful greenhouse gas emissions.
Current Position
The tabular and graphical presentations below demonstrate the College’s current position and
trend for usage.
Combined Totals as at May (Period 10)
2010/11
2,535,027
1,372,920
7,667
2011/12
2,402,869
1,488,433
10,045
2012/13
2,900,457
1,532,234
13,563
2013/14
2,289,863
1,427,422
8,227
2014/15
2,948,708
1,661,796
5,538
Change Year-on-Year
Gas
-423,274
Electricity
-66,653
Water
-4,152
-132,158
115,513
2,378
497,588
43,801
3,518
-610,595
-104,812
-5,336
658,845
234,374
2,689
% Change Year-on-Year
Gas
-14.31
Electricity
-4.63
Water
-35.13
-5.21
8.41
31.02
20.71
2.94
35.02
-21.05
-6.84
-39.34
28.77
16.42
-32.69
Gas
Electricity
Water
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
Average
2,615,384
1,496,561
9,008
 page 2 of 30
Gas Usage Year on Year
3,500,000
3,000,000
2,500,000
kwh
2,000,000
1,500,000
1,000,000
500,000
0
07/08
08/09
09/10
10/11
11/12
12/13
13/14
14/15
Year
kwh
Electricity Usage Year on Year
2,000,000
1,800,000
1,600,000
1,400,000
1,200,000
1,000,000
800,000
600,000
400,000
200,000
0
07/08
08/09
09/10
10/11
11/12
12/13
13/14
14/15
Year
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Water Usage Year on Year
Cubic Meters
18,000
16,000
14,000
12,000
10,000
8,000
6,000
4,000
2,000
0
07/08
08/09
09/10
10/11
11/12
12/13
13/14
14/15
Year
Gas Usage
800,000
700,000
600,000
2007/08
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
2011/12
2012/13
2013/14
2014/15
Units (kwh)
500,000
400,000
300,000
200,000
100,000
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Month
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Electricity Usage
250,000
200,000
2007/08
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
2011/12
2012/13
2013/14
Units (kwh)
150,000
100,000
50,000
-
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Month
9
10
11
12
Water Usage
2,500
Units (cubic meters)
2,000
2007/08
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
2011/12
2012/13
2013/14
2014/15
1,500
1,000
500
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Month
The graph considers the overall usage in the period. The changes to the College estate must
be considered in making meaningful comparisons. In 2014/15 blocks 11 and 12 were
commissioned alongside the flood lights on the all-weather pitch. Although the College has
already taken some positive steps if no further action is taken emissions are likely to increase
over time, as activities become more energy intensive. The property strategy is coterminous
with the objectives of the carbon management scheme and will be reduced by:
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
 page 5 of 30
development of green travel priorities;
replacement of boilers;
environmental evaluation of capital projects and use of alternatives to air cooling such as
passivent
replacement of windows at Whittingham
LED lighting
consideration of alternative energy sources
More informative meter statistics are required in order to evaluate environmental schemes.
Halesowen College Vision for Carbon Reduction
The College has taken action and compares favourably with benchmarks, for example
eMandate. An ambitious reduction target, supported by projections from the completion of the
current property strategy has been set:
Halesowen College will reduce the carbon emissions from its activities by
at least 10% by 2020
Environmentally positive schemes in 2014/15 include:
LED lighting in blocks 1, 2, 4 and 5
New boilers at Shenstone House, block 8 and Coombs Wood
Replacement windows at Shenstone House
New green travel survey
Car lease scheme for staff offering incentives for choosing more energy efficient models
Carbon Reduction Projects
Carbon reduction projects and activities:
Good housekeeping – improving metering and campaigns to change student and staff
behaviour;
Invest-to-save projects, such as LED lighting replacement, increased installation of
motion detectors and improving insulation, etc;
Energy efficient IT kit;
Exploring alternative energy options
Replacement of windows during refurbishment at Whittingham Road;
Whilst these projects have the potential to reduce emissions in excess of the target, this will
be carefully monitored to ensure compliance.
The College will work with local stakeholders to identify and implement best practice solutions.
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Projections and Risks
To implement the projects defined in this plan most budgets have already been allocated.
The College is seeking Carbon Trust grants to support the costs of LED lighting and boiler
replacement.
Ownership of Plan and Reporting
To deliver this plan, a team has been established to ensure successful implementation. This
includes:
Director of Finance and Corporate Services
Estates Manager
Customer Services Manager
Central Operations Manager
Teacher Development Manager
Organisational Development Manager
Technical Resources Manager
Business Development Director
Progress against this plan will be reviewed annually and a report will be provided to the
College Executive/Senior Management Team. Key themes will be reported to the Corporation
and publicised on the staff hub/website.
The College plans to develop its links with the Carbon Trust and explore working towards an
appropriate award/accreditation.
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Green Travel Plan
Objectives
The objective of this Travel Plan is to set out targets for traffic reduction to all sites as well as
realistic actions as to how these will be achieved. The solutions include encouraging cycling
and walking and promoting a public transport alternative to further reduce single car
occupancy use within the College for staff and students.
The objectives of this Travel Plan are:
To adopt and support Central and Local Government initiatives on green transport issues;
To help change the attitudes of staff, students and visitors about the options for the way
they travel;
To provide information on alternative means of transport, thus trying to reduce reliance on
car usage;
To conduct travel surveys, to understand travel patterns and attitudes;
To establish, monitor and review targets to promote sustainable travel for all employees,
students and visitors;
To ensure compliance with all appropriate legislation and conditions of planning.
The College actively seeks the opinions of all students and staff on travel and transport
issues. Focus groups are held to explore advantages and disadvantages of various opinions
in detail. Feedback is useful and incorporated into travel plans and targets for the future. In
terms of the student focus groups, there is participation from a wide range of students
including those studying an A level and vocational programmes. Also students at all levels
are involved and the focus groups ensure inclusion from ethnic groups, students with
disabilities and from various backgrounds. Moreover, staff groups include teaching and
business support staff at all levels.
In order to gather data about travel options, the College has surveyed the staff and students
and undertaken travel audits of cycle and walking routes.
Background (including location and travel issues)
Halesowen College is a tertiary College based in Halesowen. The College has three
campuses; one at Whittingham Road, Halesowen, B63 3NA, a Business Centre on the
Coombs Wood Industrial Park, Halesowen, B63 8BB, and Shenstone House, a former office
block near the centre of Halesowen B63 3NT.
The College’s mission is to be the leading choice for post 16 education and training. There is
an extensive range of high quality provision including A level, vocational programmes, higher
education and apprenticeships to students aged 14-25.
This Travel Plan is applicable for all of the sites but may be tailored in part to suit the needs of
each individual site. It reflects the requirements of the former Learning and Skills Strategy
document, ‘From Here to Sustainability’ and other best environmental and sustainable practice.
In terms of staff profile the College’s staff base has remained fairly stable over the last few
years. However, Halesowen College is a popular choice with students and has built up a
reputation as an excellent post 16 option. Despite increased competition and a declining
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demographic the College has sustained 16-18 student numbers over the last few years
although the number of 16 year olds has declined. Maintaining this level of enrolment will be
challenging for the College. The College currently employs around 550 staff on full time,
fractional and sessional contracts. The critical mass, some 380 staff, are based at
Whittingham Road.
With regard to students the College operates a timetable which means that no more than
approximately 80% of its students attend on a given day. The campus with the highest levels
of students attending is Whittingham Road with up to 2,750 students anticipated to attend
daily. Alternative timetable options have been explored to further improve room utilisation
and efficiency.
Capital Developments
The College has embarked on a programme of capital development based at the Whittingham
Road campus. Block 13, comprising teaching accommodation and specialist performance
space is due for completion in September 2016. Planning permission was granted for this
development in May 2015.
Planning Consent
As stated above the College was granted permission by Dudley MBC for the development.
Subject to several conditions including:
Prior to commencement of the development hereby approved an updated travel plan
shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority,
including details of a Travel Plan co-ordinator, staff Travel Survey, Car Parking
Management, Walking and Cycling initiatives, set targets and monitoring and to join
company Travel wise in Dudley together with a timetable for the implementation of
each such element. The Travel Pan shall be updated each year and implemented in
accordance with the details approved by the Local Planning Authority and remain
operational for the life of the development
Travel Issues for Students and Staff
Travel issues for staff and students at Halesowen College are summarised in the table below
Advantages
Disadvantages
WALKING
A good way of keeping healthy and improving
fitness
No costs involved
Flexible
Reduces carbon emissions/pollution and is
environmentally sound
Pleasant in fine weather and enjoyable
Unpleasant in inclement weather
Safety concerns especially when it is dark and
when using isolated roads, underpasses etc.
Busy roads to cross
Uneven pavements and steep hills
CYCLING
Excellent for fitness and exercise
Fun and flexible
Environmentally friendly option
Cycle to Work Scheme a good incentive (staff)
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
Safety on roads
Concern about damage to/ theft of bicycle
Need to shower/change clothes on arrival
Busy roads, islands and interchanges
Cost of cycles and safety equipment
 page 9 of 30
BUS
More positive for the environment than cars
Social method of travel
College bus provides a swift, reliable and
punctual service which is free of charge
Public routes can be expensive and infrequent
Public buses perceived to be dirty with lots of
litter
Safety concerns on public buses
Some College routes can be lengthy
Stress free method of travel
TRAIN
Quick and efficient for longer journeys
Comfortable option
No train station within walking distance
Expensive
Concerns about safety when travelling alone
CAR
Independent and flexible
Can share vehicles and make travel sociable
Convenient and safe
Expensive – especially given petrol and
insurance costs
Traffic pollution is a concern
Traffic congestion on main roads
Poor road conditions
This table is culmination of notes from focus groups which are held specifically to address the
issues of green travel options and students’ issues with travelling to and from College.
These advantages and disadvantages were identified through discussion with students in the
transport and travel focus group, and through discussion with staff.
Surveys were emailed to all staff and full time students and reminders issued in tutorial time
to ensure maximum participation. The travel survey was posted online using SurveyMonkey
software to collect and analyse the results. Following input with experts from Dudley MBC the
College amended its survey questions to gain more information from staff and students. The
survey now asks about travel methods whilst at College, distance travelled from home, and
also invites participants to declare whether they have a disability. In order to gain more
information about travel patterns, the College has increased the minimum sample size to
15%. The results of the survey conducted in January/February 2015 have been collated and
are summarised in this document.
Green Travel Working Group
The College has developed a Green Travel Working Group comprising:
Director of Finance and Corporate Services
Estates Manager
Customer Services Manager
Central Operations Manager
Teacher Development Manager
Organisational Development Manager
Technical Resources Manager
Business Development Director
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This group meets termly to discuss and monitor progress made against the objectives of the
Travel Plan and the detailed action points. The Estates Manager assisted by the Central
Operations Manager act as the Travel Plan Co-ordinators.
The College also engages the views of the local community and participates in residents’
forums and hosts a regular meeting of the Whittingham Road Action Group. This meeting is
attended by the Principal, the Estates Manager, and the Campus Development Manager. The
group has made positive comments about the impact of traffic reduction schemes.
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Survey Results and Progress
Survey Results 2015
Site Information
Number of Staff (FT, PT and Temporary)
Number of Students (Full Time 16-18)
Percentage of Staff who completed the survey
Percentage of Students who completed the survey
551
3967
39.33%
21.43%
Whittingham
Road
Number of car parking spaces
Number of disabled spaces
Coombs
Wood
315
13
Average distance of journey to college (Staff)
Average distance of journey to college (Students)
5 miles+
5 miles+
20-29
minutes
30-39
minutes
Average duration of journey to college (Staff)
Average duration of journey to college (Students)
Shenstone
House
70
5
5 miles+
5 miles+
30-39
minutes
Up to 1
hour
64
4
4-5 miles
5 miles+
20-29
minutes
30-39
minutes
STAFF
Whittingham Road
Main Method of Travel
Own Car
Lift from other College
user
Lift from non-College
user
College bus
Other bus, train etc
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Walk
Preferred method of
travel
Own Car
Lift from other College
user
Lift from non-College
user
College bus
Other bus, train etc
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Walk
Staff
Jan-10
Jan-12
73.25
57.24%
May-04
85.30%
Jun-06
74.00%
May-08
69.10%
3.50%
0.80%
7.64%
7.24%
5.30%
0.00%
0.00%
1.87%
2.70%
1.40%
4.80%
0.00%
4.80%
0.00%
1.60%
9.70%
4.32%
0.66%
7.64%
1.00%
2.00%
10.63%
4.28%
2.96%
9.54%
1.64%
3.62%
12.17%
12.50%
3.62%
10.63%
Feb-15
78.13%
Target
2.68%
68.10%
4.67%
11.30%
-2.37%
2.00%
12.17%
-0.21%
-8.15%
2.68%
1.79%
7.14%
1.34%
1.79%
4.02%
Variance
Staff
May-08
54.35%
Jan-10
57.84%
Feb-15
56.70%
9.91%
9.32%
5.84%
4.20%
2.70%
3.90%
0.60%
6.61%
13.51%
3.73%
3.73%
4.10%
1.49%
4.48%
13.49%
3.74%
6.52%
7.90%
2.06%
7.22%
9.97%
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 page 12 of 30
Coombs Wood
Staff
Main Method of Travel
Own Car
Lift from other College
user
Lift from non-College
user
College bus
Other bus, train etc
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Walk
Preferred method of
travel
Own Car
Lift from other College
user
Lift from non-College
user
College bus
Other bus, train etc
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Walk
May-04
68.00%
Jun-06
89.00%
May-08
63.64%
Jan-10
76.92%
9.10%
0.00%
4.55%
0.00%
13.60%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
9.10%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
11.00%
0.00%
0.00%
9.09%
0.00%
13.64%
0.00%
0.00%
9.09%
0.00%
0.00%
7.69%
0.00%
7.69%
7.69%
May-08
69.57%
Staff
Jan-10
81.82%
Feb-15
75.00%
8.70%
0.00%
0.00%
4.35%
4.35%
4.35%
0.00%
0.00%
8.70%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
18.18%
0.00%
0.00%
8.33%
0.00%
0.00%
16.67%
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
Jan12
76.93
7.69%
7.69%
7.69%
Feb-15
83.33%
Target
0.00%
62.10%
21.23%
16.64%
-8.31%
0.00%
9.09%
0.00%
-9.09%
8.30%
8.33%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
Variance
 page 13 of 30
Shenstone House
Staff
Main Method of Travel
Own Car
Lift from other College
user
Lift from non-College
user
College bus
Other bus, train etc
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Walk
Preferred method of
travel
Own Car
Lift from other College
user
Lift from non-College user
College bus
Other bus, train etc
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Walk
May04
Jun-06
100.00%
May-08
86.67%
Jan-10
70.97%
0.00%
3.33%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
3.33%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
6.66%
6.45%
0.00%
9.68%
3.23%
0.00%
3.23%
May-08
76.70%
Staff
Jan-10
74.19%
Feb-15
71.43
6.66%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
3.33%
13.33%
0.00%
3.23%
0.00%
3.23%
3.23%
0.00%
3.23%
0
0
7.14
7.14
0
3.57
10.71
Jan12
87.09
9.68%
0.00%
3.23%
Feb-15
91.67%
Target
0.00%
85.67%
6.00%
3.00%
1.17%
0.00%
6.66%
0.00%
-6.66%
0.00%
4.17%
0.00%
4.17%
0.00%
0.00%
Variance
Commentary and Staff Targets
The target for Own Car staff usage refers to single occupancy as such the variance figure takes
into account Own Car usage minus the staff who are passengers. At Whittingham Road the single
car occupancy has decreased since the original survey but is rising again being 4.67% above
target. The smaller staff sizes at Shenstone House and Coombs Wood make these numbers
more acute.
The nature of the work at Coombs Wood is largely focused on delivering higher education and
apprenticeships which require staff to travel to employees to assess students in the work place.
Hence the use of the vehicle as an integral part of the role which largely explains the trends at
Coombs Wood. Also Coombs Wood is not easily accessible by public transport with a longer than
average walk to the nearest bus stop. 29% of the staff that were surveyed at Shenstone House
indicated they may be encouraged to cycle to work if they had more access to showers and
changing facilities.
The trend towards increase car usage at all sites may also be explained in a change in
terminology and questions used. In this survey we asked what methods of transport staff use and
their main form of transport. These figures follow the trends from previous years and show that
staff do use alternative forms of transport but that they are not always suitable every day.
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 page 14 of 30
Whittingham Road
Own Car
Lift from other College user
Lift from non-College user
College bus
Other bus, train etc
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Walk
Main Form of Transport
78.13%
2.68%
2.68%
1.79%
7.14%
1.34%
1.79%
4.02%
All Forms of Transport
61.59%
6.88%
7.60%
1.81%
9.42%
1.44%
2.17%
9.06%
Target
Variance
68.10%
-13.39%
11.30%
-0.07%
2.00%
12.17%
0.17%
-3.11%
Since the last survey the College has implemented timetable changes which increase room
utilisation in order to cater for the number of students and improve energy efficiency in terms of
lighting, heating etc. This has impacted staff who need to travel between campuses as the break
between lessons has been reduced thus preventing staff walking in some cases.
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STUDENTS
Whittingham Road
Method of Travel
Own Car
Lift from other College
user
Lift from non-College user
College bus
Other bus, train etc
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Walk
Preferred method of travel
Own Car
Lift from other College
user
Lift from non-College user
College bus
Other bus, train etc
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Walk
May-04
14.00%
Jun-06
10.00%
May-08
10.07%
5.40%
10.50%
46.00%
5.70%
2.60%
1.50%
13.00%
1.70%
1.70%
48.80%
25.50%
3.40%
0.60%
6.80%
8.03%
11.75%
21.94%
34.05%
1.44%
1.08%
12.00%
Students
Jan-10
Jan-12
5.62%
5.26%
8.79%
39.04%
29.35%
1.09%
0.09%
9.51%
68.39%
0.09%
9.51%
Feb-15
4.10%
0.56%
5.21%
70.95%
11.73%
0.37%
0.19%
6.70%
Target
Variance
9.07%
5.53%
58.99%
23.69%
1.08%
12.00%
0.37%
-0.89%
-5.30%
Students
May-04
22.80%
Jun-06
67.00%
May-08
44.18%
Jan-10
23.60%
Feb-15
21.59%
4.80%
9.58%
42.00%
4.80%
2.60%
1.50%
12.00%
1.10%
1.70%
14.70%
4.00%
2.80%
3.40%
4.00%
14.64%
8.14%
16.27%
8.26%
2.63%
2.13%
5.88%
4.59%
7.38%
30.54%
18.57%
1.01%
0.00%
7.49%
7.24%
14.96%
32.81%
15.56%
2.17%
0.84%
4.83%
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 page 16 of 30
Coombs Wood
Method of Travel
Own Car
Lift from other College
user
Lift from non-College user
College bus
Other bus, train etc
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Walk
Preferred method of travel
Own Car
Lift from other College
user
Lift from non-College user
College bus
Other bus, train etc
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Walk
May-04
21.50%
Jun-06
42.40%
May-08
26.09%
Students
Jan-10
Jan-12
16.67%
Feb-15
0.00%
6.30%
17.60%
23.80%
15.00%
1.30%
0.00%
15.00%
0.00%
0.00%
14.20%
28.20%
0.00%
0.00%
14.20%
4.35%
13.04%
13.04%
30.43%
4.35%
0.00%
8.70%
5.56%
22.22%
16.67%
22.22%
0.00%
0.00%
11.11%
0.00%
25.00%
50.00%
25.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
May-04
36.20%
Jun-06
85.70%
Students
May-08
77.78%
Jan-10
14.29%
Feb-15
20.00%
5.00%
10.00%
20.00%
12.50%
1.30%
0.00%
15.00%
0.00%
0.00%
14.30%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
11.11%
0.00%
11.11%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
28.57%
21.43%
14.29%
0.00%
7.14%
7.14%
10.00%
10.00%
20.00%
20.00%
5.00%
5.00%
10.00%
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
38.89%
0.00%
11.11%
Target
Variance
25.09%
25.09%
46.48%
28.52%
0.00%
8.70%
0.00%
0.00%
-8.70%
 page 17 of 30
Shenstone House
Students
Method of Travel
May04
Own Car
Lift from other College
user
Lift from non-College user
College bus
Other bus, train etc
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Walk
Jun-06
28.50%
May-08
6.70%
Jan-10
11.98%
0.00%
9.50%
28.50%
28.50%
0.00%
0.00%
4.70%
3.08%
14.40%
10.20%
43.57%
0.00%
1.00%
21.55%
3.23%
9.22%
17.05%
40.55%
0.00%
0.46%
16.13%
Jun-06
81.00%
Students
May-08
42.62%
Jan-10
26.60%
Feb-15
25.00%
4.70%
0.00%
14.30%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
7.36%
15.26%
11.03%
16.38%
0.52%
1.06%
5.77%
3.19%
11.17%
13.30%
24.47%
0.00%
0.53%
12.77%
6.94%
19.44%
18.06%
27.78%
1.39%
0.00%
1.39%
May-04
Own Car
Lift from other College
user
Lift from non-College user
College bus
Other bus, train etc
Motorcycle
Bicycle
Walk
Jan-12
57.60%
46.00%
16.13%
Feb-15
4.44%
0.00%
11.11%
46.67%
33.33%
0.00%
0.00%
4.44%
Target
Variance
5.70%
1.26%
56.77%
23.23%
1.00%
21.55%
0.00%
-1.00%
-17.11%
Commentary and Student Targets
Students represent the largest group who travel to College and there has been a significant
decrease in the use of private transportation to the College since the first survey in May 2004. For
example at Whittingham Road private transportation has decreased from 32.5%% to 10.24% this
is largely a result of the promotion and expansion of the College bus service from 46.00% to
70.95%. The College bus service is an excellent facility for students enabling them to travel to
College safety and efficiently on environmentally positive transport.
The College regularly reviews the routes of all College express bus services to ensure that we are
meeting the needs of all students. Since 2010 five additional routes have been added; Bewdley
(17 students), Selly Oak (217 students), Kings Norton (75 students), Wombourne (284 students)
and Wolverhampton (44 students).
Significant progress has been made against student targets. Targets in relation to student travel
options have been met or exceeded for decreasing single car occupancy and increasing the use of
bus services. However, cycling and walking targets have not been met which is likely due to the
original targets being based on the 2004 survey before the College buses became so popular with
students and the increase in student numbers from a wider catchment area. In addition the
majority of students live in excess of two miles from the College hence walking is not a realistic
option.
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
 page 18 of 30
Travel between Sites
Student Travel between sites (if
applicable)
Bicycle
College bus
Lift from other College user
Motorcycle
Other bus, train etc
Own Car
Walk
Students
Staff
0.67%
45.45%
2.88%
0.44%
5.76%
4.15%
40.80%
All
0.39%
2.31%
8.85%
1.15%
0.00%
63.85%
23.08%
0.56%
29.68%
5.06%
0.70%
3.66%
26.44
34.32%
The College has invested in bus transportation between sites and runs buses regularly to and
from Whittingham to the other campuses. Very few students drive between sites with the majority
taking the College bus or walking.
2015 Overview
Main method of Travel Staff
Comparison
Bicycle
College bus
Lift from non-College user
Lift from other College user
Motorcycle
Other bus, train etc
Own Car
Walk
Whittingham
Road
1.79%
1.79%
2.68%
2.68%
1.34%
7.14%
78.13%
4.02%
Main method of Travel Student
Comparison
Bicycle
College bus
Lift from non-College user
Lift from other College user
Motorcycle
Other bus, train etc
Own Car
Walk
Whittingham
Road
19.00%
70.95%
5.21%
0.56%
37.00%
11.73%
4.10%
6.70%
All Staff and Students
Bicycle
College bus
Lift from non-College user
Lift from other College user
Motorcycle
Other bus, train etc
Own Car
Walk
Whittingham
Road
0.67%
50.80%
4.68%
1.20%
0.67%
11.23%
24.87%
5.88%
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
Coombs Wood
0.00%
8.33%
8.30%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
83.33%
0.00%
Coombs Wood
0.00%
50.00%
25.00%
0.00%
0.00%
25.00%
0.00%
0.00%
Coombs Wood
0%
25.00%
15.00%
0.00%
0.00%
10.00%
50.00%
0.00%
Shenstone
House
0.00%
4.17%
0.00%
0.00%
4.17%
0.00%
91.67%
0.00%
Shenstone
House
0.00%
46.67%
11.11%
0.00%
0.00%
33.33%
4.44%
4.44%
Shenstone
House
0.00%
24.64%
5.80%
0.00%
0.00%
28.99%
36.23%
4.35%
All
1.54%
1.92%
3.07%
2.31%
1.54%
6.53%
79.62%
3.46%
All
0.16%
68.87%
6.29%
0.47%
0.31%
13.05%
4.09%
6.45%
All
0.56%
48.66%
5.58%
1.00%
0.67%
11.94%
26.00%
5.58%
 page 19 of 30
Staff Transport 1415
Bicycle
College bus
Lift from nonCollege user
Lift from other
College user
Motorcycle
Other bus, train
etc
Own Car
Walk
Student Transport 1415
Bicycle
College bus
Lift from non-College
user
Lift from other
College user
Motorcycle
Other bus, train etc
Own Car
Walk
All College Staff and Students 1415
Bicycle
College bus
Lift from nonCollege user
Lift from other
College user
Motorcycle
Other bus, train etc
Own Car
Walk
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
 page 20 of 30
Staff Transport to College Comparison
95.00%
90.00%
85.00%
80.00%
75.00%
70.00%
65.00%
60.00%
55.00%
50.00%
45.00%
40.00%
35.00%
30.00%
25.00%
20.00%
15.00%
10.00%
5.00%
0.00%
Bicycle
College bus Lift from non- Lift from
Motorcycle
College user other College
user
Whittingham Road
Coombs Wood
Other bus,
train etc
Shenstone House
Own Car
Walk
Own Car
Walk
All
Student Transport to College Comparison
75.00%
70.00%
65.00%
60.00%
55.00%
50.00%
45.00%
40.00%
35.00%
30.00%
25.00%
20.00%
15.00%
10.00%
5.00%
0.00%
Bicycle
College bus Lift from non- Lift from
Motorcycle
College user other College
user
Whittingham Road
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
Coombs Wood
Other bus,
train etc
Shenstone House
All
 page 21 of 30
All College Staff and Students Transport Comparison
60.00%
55.00%
50.00%
45.00%
40.00%
35.00%
30.00%
25.00%
20.00%
15.00%
10.00%
5.00%
0.00%
Bicycle
College bus Lift from non- Lift from
Motorcycle
College user other College
user
Whittingham Road
Coombs Wood
Other bus,
train etc
Shenstone House
Own Car
Walk
All
Survey Results and Progress made since last Travel Plan
Since the last Travel Plan was produced the College has continued to make progress in
developing its approach to environmental issues, including transport. Some examples are listed
below.
The College has introduced the Cycle to Work Scheme which is a salary sacrifice scheme
allowing staff to make savings on the cost of bicycles and associated safety equipment.
The College has introduced a Fleet Car Scheme to encourage staff who do drive to use low
emission vehicles and eliminate grey fleet.
Students represent the largest group who travel to College and there has been a significant
decrease in the use of private transportation in this group has resulted in the College
achieving a reduction in car traffic overall.
26% of all College users travel using their own car of which one in five bring another College
user with them. However the majority of these car users are staff.
These achievements demonstrate the commitment within the College to maintaining a healthy
environment. A number of the targets agreed with Dudley MBC in the last Travel Plan have been
met or exceeded. The College does however acknowledge that not all targets have been met and
has developed an action plan.
Overall, the College has achieved a reduction in the amount of car traffic at the College sites.
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
 page 22 of 30
Action Plan
Targets
Consolidate the excellent progress with student travel and ensure that as a minimum 90% of
the student population use College buses, public transport, walk or cycle to College.
Promote the Cycle to Work scheme to staff alongside the Car Lease Scheme and increase the
number of participants by 10% by 2017.
Reduce single car usage amongst the staff by 5% by 2020.
Actions
Increase promotion of College bus services. The College will retender the service in 2015
allowing a refreshed approach for the new academic year. All students are informed about
transport options at interview and the service is promoted at Open Day and similar events.
There is no charge to students who travel on the College bus and the College is committed to
maintaining this despite funding cuts. A bus helpdesk will be set up throughout the enrolment
and induction period to ensure that students book a place on the correct route and that there is
no delay with issuing bus passes. A comprehensive review of all routes mapped against
admissions data will be conducted in the autumn term.
Action : Business Development Director / Director of Finance and Corporate Services /
Student Experience Director
The College has engaged with Dudley MBC to actively promote alternatives to single car
usage and will explore the Smart Network, Smarter Choices scheme.
Action : Director of Finance and Corporate Services
The College organised its health and environment week to further promote healthy lifestyle and
environmental responsibilities by means of exhibitions and special events. During this week
everyone will be encouraged to walk, use public transport or cycle to College. This will be
organised again for 2015/16 and green travel experts from Dudley MBC invited to participate in
this event.
Action : Student Experience Director
Continue to inform students via active promotion of Centro and Travel West Midlands options.
The College provides links to appropriate external websites from the intranet and provides
information at the start of the year on bus routes etc. Timetables etc are available from
reception and students requiring personalised travel advice can speak to Student Services for
assistance. A ‘How to Get to College’ link will provide comprehensive travel advice on public
transport and the College express bus service. This site will also include promotional,
environmental and awareness raising information.
Action :
Customer Services Manager
The College has developed excellent links with transport providers and aims to ensure an
excellent service for students at best value. The College will conduct an OJEU advertised tender
for the provision of bus services for September 2015.
Action : Business Development Director / Director of Finance and Corporate Services
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
 page 23 of 30
The College will continue to provide pedestrian training for all students with learning difficulties
annually. As part of the curriculum for independent living skills students are supported as part
of their programme of study to utilise public transport. In the first instance a member of
College staff will travel with the students and as confidence and skills build the student will
eventually be able to travel independently.
Action : Curriculum Team Manager
The College will repeat a safety audit by key walking and cycling routes to College and derive
an appropriate action plan from the findings of this audit.
Action : Director of Finance and Corporate Services /
WSP
The Portal, Moodle and the Staff Hub will be utilised to provide information. There will be termly
updates on progress and achievements regarding the Travel Plan. To inform this there will be
more regular directed surveys in addition to the formal/comprehensive Green Travel Survey.
Action : IT and Systems Director
Staff will be surveyed about car share options with a view to implementing a Car Share
Database by end of March 2016. Discounts on car parking charges for pool cars to be
promoted for September 2015.
Action : Organisational Development Director
Provide secure cycle storage in accordance with the recommendations made by Dudley MBC
and review shower facilities.
Action : Estates Manager
Link with Dudley MBC to arrange cycle training for students as required.
Action : Student Experience Director
Promote the Cycle to Work Scheme on the Staff Hub.
Action : Senior Personnel Officer
Join Company TravelWise in Dudley
Company TravelWise offers the College advice on reducing employee car usage to travel to and
from work and also whilst at work. There are also benefits for employees, for example when
switching to public transport employees can qualify for a 50% discount on a travel pass. In
accordance with the Travel Plan resource pack for employers, the College’s annual timetable for
Company TravelWise is as follows:
Agree survey questions
Jan 2015
Director of Finance and Corporate Services
Conduct travel survey and hold
focus groups
Feb 2015
Health and Safety Manager
Collate results of travel survey
April 2015
Health and Safety Manager
Revise Travel Plan
July 2015
Director of Finance and Corporate Services
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
 page 24 of 30
Monitor existing targets against
survey
Nov 2015
Director of Finance and Corporate Services
Set revised targets
Nov 2015
Director of Finance and Corporate Services
Travel Plan reconsidered and
approved by College Executive
Jan 2016
Director of Finance and Corporate Services
Promotion of plan on Staff Hub and
Moodle
Jan 2016
Web team
Transport links audit conducted
June 2016
Health and Safety Manager
Walking and Cycling Audit
June 2016
WSP
Produce publicity material
July 2016
Central Operations Manager
Publicise successes on
Moodle/Staff Hub
Sept 2016
Central Operations Manager
Termly monitoring of plan
Environmental Group
Review bicycle storage
July 2016
Estates Manager
Review
Reviewed/Approved
Updated by
By
Jacquie Carman
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
Date
29.10.15
 page 25 of 30
Appendix 1
Halesowen College Car Park Management Strategy
Halesowen College has three sites with Car Parks with the following capacities
Whittingham Road
Car Park A
Car Park B
Car Park C
Coombs Wood
Shenstone House
Spaces
Disabled Spaces
197
12
106
315
70
70
8
7
15
6
5
The Car Park at Coombs Wood is shared by staff and students.
The Car Park at Shenstone House is staff only with car park passes issued to users. A car park
attendant controls entry. Staff are charged the same annual rate for the car park as detailed below
for Whittingham Road.
The Car Parks at Whittingham Road are operated as follows:
Car Park A – barrier controlled (intercom for visitors and deliveries) with security monitoring
access during peak entry times in the morning. Available to staff and students living more than
1.5 miles away who are not on a College bus route, on payment of £25 per annum for a pass.
Car Park B – barrier controlled. Available to College Executive and Senior Staff on payment
of £75.00 per annum.
Car Park C – barrier controlled (intercom for visitors and deliveries). Available to staff on
payment of £75.00 per annum for a pass.
Note; across the road from the Whittingham Road Campus is a public car park with 28 spaces.
The College has offered staff the option of spreading the costs of parking across three pay periods to
encourage use of College facilities. Unless there is a mobility requirements students are not allowed
to park cars and are encouraged to use free college transport services.
Discounts on car parking charges will be offered to approved pool cars.
Objectives
The College aims to provide adequate car parking for staff and visitors in order that unlawful car
parking is not a problem within the surrounding area. The car parks must be adequately
maintained.
However, the College levies a charge on staff and students for parking. Both staff and students
are encouraged to explore other, more environmentally friendly transport options. The College
provides a free express bus service to all students and staff are able to utilize this facility also.
There is a finite number of passes issued to staff for car parks B and C at Whittingham Road and
the car park at Shenstone House. Any member of staff can purchase a car parking permit for
access to car park A at Whittingham Road. However the purchase of a car parking pass does not
entitle the member of staff to a car parking space. No spaces are reserved for named individuals.
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
 page 26 of 30
Environmental Plan 2015/16
Key Aim
Associated
Risks
Provide a well-resourced,
pleasant and safe working
environment creating a
culture where staff are fully
engaged and provide an
outstanding service for
students
9.2
9.5
13.3
Targets 2015
Adopt Carbon Trust best practice recommendations for
energy renewal and workplace environmental standards.
Thorough review of Building Maintenance System to
preserve energy and ensure all buildings are
appropriately heated and cooled
Gain Carbon Trust accreditation
Additional trees and shrubs planted to provide a more
attractive environment and offset carbon emissions
Discharge biodiversity targets linked to block 13
Promote a sustainable
environment
12.3
13.2
13.3
13.4
Formalise a carbon reduction action plan in partnership
with the Carbon Trust.
Implement LED scheme
Reduce carbon emissions to the required target
Cost window replacement scheme
Maintain a robust financial
base, continue to achieve
and promote excellent
value for money and utilise
resources efficiently and
effectively
13.2
13.5
13.6
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
Consider alternative sources of energy and associated
payback models
Develop statistical information on carbon usage
Review all energy contracts, types of metering and
models of reporting
 page 27 of 30
Risk Area 13: Environment
Risk 13.1
Breaches under environmental legislation
Score
Assessment
The nature of the College business means that it is unlikely to lead to any
serious breach of environmental legislation. Systems are in place for
controlling storage and disposal of substances likely to cause difficulties
in accordance with relevant legislation such as The Control of
Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2010 (e.g. chemicals,
paint). Containers are in place to dispose of electrical waste which
addresses the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
legislation. When new guidelines are introduced, for example the recent
storage of radioactive materials update, appropriate professional advice
is sought. The College may unknowingly breach environmental
legislation; for example in the disposal of cooking oil or hair and beauty
product waste which may be pollutants.
8
Likelihood
Low (2)
Materiality
Significant (4)
Categorisation
Compliance
The Green Travel Plan conforms to guidance on best practice from the
Local Authority. The College complies with legislation regarding the
display of energy certificates, checks to air conditioning systems and
regularly tests water supplies to guard against legionella. The law is
developing rapidly and becoming more complex. This may present
future challenges and risks and must be regularly reviewed and
monitored.
Risk 13.2
Failure to achieve targets for the reduction in energy consumption
Score
Assessment
The costs of energy are volatile and are dependent on global factors.
The College has benefited from negotiating contracts via a specialist
purchasing consortia. However, these contracts are usually only
available on a short/medium term basis. Consumption may rise for
example following the installation of mechanical ventilation, air
conditioning and other equipment in some locations within the College.
Global climatic conditions may require increased energy for heating and
cooling. The College has taken steps to limit energy consumption by
introducing smart lighting and light-sensitive controls to most external
lighting and central controls to turn off student computers at specific
times in all teaching areas. There is an ongoing programme to replace
all internal fittings with LED devices. Educating staff and students
regarding care for the environment is crucial to achieving energy
consumption targets. New blocks have been designed specifically to
be energy efficient and the BMS controls are regularly checked. The
Green Travel Plan encourages staff and students to walk, cycle or
travel via public transport/college buses. Whilst an increasing number
of buses will lead to carbon emissions this is much less than if
everyone travelled by car. Moreover, the College operates a Cycle
Scheme for staff and a similar car scheme to reduce grey fleet and
encourage low emission vehicles. Schemes must be evaluated to
quantify energy consumption and savings. The College has adopted a
carbon management plan as part of the environmental strategy and will
explore other options such as zone valves and energy efficient boilers.
9
Likelihood
Medium (3)
Materiality
Medium (3)
Categorisation
Compliance
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
 page 28 of 30
Risk 13.3
Failure to constrain the amount of waste especially that sent to
landfill
Score
Assessment
Historically a high proportion of waste was sent to landfill and, as an
environmentally responsible organisation, the College was committed
to taking steps to reduce this. Hence, a comprehensive system of
mixed waste recycling has been successfully introduced and all general
waste is now recycled. All batteries, computer hardware and toners are
also recycled. In accordance with Government themes the College
aims to maintain this recycling programme and raise awareness
regarding litter and wasting resources. Even though all waste is sorted,
recycling bins will be installed in student areas to promote
environmental awareness.
4
Risk 13.4
Failure to consider environmental factors in purchasing
Score
Assessment
The College has an approved Procurement Policy which states
procedures and best practice regarding sustainable purchasing. Some
initiatives have been successful; for example the College now procures
all paper from environmentally responsible sources approved by the
Forestry Stewardship Council. There may be an increase in cost as
recycled items can be more expensive. This may become an increased
risk factor in a time of funding cuts and being required to demonstrate
efficiency savings. However it is important to consider the whole cost
not merely the price of the item. Also, budget holders need to avoid
waste, safeguard assets and ensure that all goods are actually
required. Within the parameters of EU procurement law the College
considers the carbon footprint of deliveries. Methods of delivery are
also considered to ensure minimal adverse environmental impact. The
College will now continue to build on existing good practice in this area.
The requirement to demonstrate sound environmental policies is a
requirement in all tenders.
9
Risk 13.5
Failure to migrate from paper based systems to digital platforms
Score
Assessment
The College is proactively embracing technology and has made
significant progress, successfully introducing systems of
egovernance, iTracker, electronic student tracking, sessional pay and
other web based systems. The replacement of the core business
support systems will advance this agenda. This reduces the volumes
of paper utilisation as well as increasing efficiency and effectiveness.
Moodle is well used and the students value this digital resource.
Despite this, some teaching resources are paper based and some
support areas are also still dependent on manual based systems. New
requirements from certain exam boards require hard copies of student
work which is contra to a paperless objective. The volume of paper
being ordered and reprographics/printing patterns suggest that the
College continues to use significant paper based resources. Failure to
move to digital systems is a risk from many aspects but there is also an
environmental strand. It must be noted that technical support is a finite
resource. The reliance on digital systems is itself a risk (refer to risk
area 10 Digital).
9
Likelihood
Insignificant (1)
Materiality
Significant (4)
Categorisation
Opportunity
Likelihood
Medium (3)
Materiality
Medium (3)
Categorisation
Financial
Likelihood
Medium (3)
Materiality
Medium (3)
Categorisation
Opportunity
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
 page 29 of 30
Risk 13.6
Failure to manage access and egress to the site (especially
Whittingham Road) and the impact of transport on the local
environment
Score
Assessment
Transport can impact on quality of the environment. The College has
been very proactive in addressing the environmental concerns regarding
traffic management and volumes of pedestrians entering and exiting the
sites at key points of the day. Advice has been sought and
enhancements made to car park entrances to provide a distinct
pedestrian route. This is now working well. Moreover, the College has
been instrumental in securing traffic calming measures and has built a
bus lay-by for student transport. However, given the volume of cars and
pedestrians not only within the Whittingham Road site but at nearby
schools, there is an inherent risk. Staff and students do park legally
along the public highways surrounding the College. The College has a
management rota for arrival and departure of buses with health and
safety considerations paramount. There have been a couple of minor
incidents. Delivery times are restricted to avoid busy periods.
8
Likelihood
Low (2)
Materiality
Significant (4)
Categorisation
Reputational
Thorough risk evaluation on car park routes are conducted and student
awareness of road safety etc. is raised through the tutorial curriculum.
Risk 13.7
Failure to achieve the target BREEAM and similar standards for
new building projects
Score
Assessment
On certain projects the College was granted financial support from the
Skills Funding Agency et al to contribute to the costs of capital
developments. These grants had requirements for BREEAM
compliance. The College completed an environmental file and this was
a standing item at every site meeting.
1
Likelihood
Insignificant (1)
Materiality
Insignificant (1)
Categorisation/
Financial
The College will continue to work towards environmental standards for
all capital works.
There are no current projects with specific requirements.
Risk 13.8
Failure to maintain required levels of biodiversity
Score
Assessment
The College wishes to sustain a pleasant learning and working
environment and is mindful of biodiversity especially during and
following major capital building projects. Tree surveys have been
conducted and there will be a new scheme of replanting in place linking
with the revised property strategy.
6
Likelihood
Medium (3)
Materiality
Low (2)
Categorisation/
Compliance
A new grounds contract will focus on improving the borders at the
Whittingham campus.
Risk 13.9
Failure to promote positive environmental action
Score
Assessment
Celebrating positive contributions to the environmental agenda
amongst the staff and student body can convey key messages
throughout College and into the wider community. Some initiatives
such as the Woodland Trust work have been publicised on Buzz and
received positive feedback.
9
Likelihood
Medium (3)
Materiality
Medium (3)
An environmental noticeboard may further aid communication of this
global issue.
JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015)
 page 30 of 30