New scheme to cut city congestion

A new scheme aimed at cutting congestion in Exeter is set to launch to businesses on the 22 October at Exeter Chamber’s monthly networking lunch.

Exeter Chamber of Commerce and Devon County Council are working together to make Exeter a more sustainable city along with Exeter Chamber’s sub group ESBN (Exeter Sustainable Business Network).

By launching the new scheme together it is hoped that all three will be able to interact with local organisations, building a wider network and greater awareness for the scheme from environmentally conscious companies.

Chris Lorimer, Chair of the Exeter Chamber’s sub group ESBN believes that launching the scheme will help Exeter with its growing congestion problem saying: “Transport concerns are uppermost in the mind of many of our Chamber members. Through Park and Change, we will be able to take some pragmatic steps to making congestion and help local businesses.

The Park and Change scheme has four main aims: to help people save money on fuel; to reduce congestion, pollution and carbon foot print; to help drivers to meet new people and to help people get fitter by choosing a different mode of transport.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: "Anything that can be done to tackle congestion should be applauded.

"Reducing traffic on our roads is good for the local economy and local environment. This park and change scheme is another good idea to help keep Devon moving alongside a number of schemes which are improving sustainable transport options in Exeter and across the county.

"Cycling journeys in Exeter have increased by 40% over the past six years, more than 1.8 million people used the city's park and ride sites last year and Carsharedevon.com now has around 11,000 members."

There will be a two part launch to the campaign, with the first starting on 22nd October, which will be aimed at creating awareness and providing information to businesses interested in taking part in the scheme. Liverpool Victoria will be providing a case study to businesses that are interested in finding out more about the scheme at Exeter Chamber’s lunch.

As well as launching Park and Change, the Chamber lunch will have a panel of guests to inform delegates on the parking and congestion problems within the city.

Zsolt Schuller from Devon County Council will be giving delegates an update on sustainable travel, Ross Hussey from Exeter City Council will be in attendance to talk about electric vehicle strategy and Adrian Ullisse from Ethos Smart will be informing delegates on smart parking solutions.

The lunch, being held at the Southgate Hotel is £16.50 for Chamber members and £24.75 for non-members. If you would like to book a place please call Jennifer Byrne at the Chamber office on 01392 431133.