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Incorporating Active Travel into your daily lives

Is getting active part of your new year’s resolution?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that getting active means hitting the gym, paying an excessive amount of money for a personal trainer, or running miles to get fit. But in truth, being active does not mean you have to make big lifestyle changes.

You can do so simply by travelling actively from one point to another.

What does that mean?

Travelling actively, i.e. Active Travel is one of the most effective and easy ways to fit in more physical activity into your daily life as well as contributing to helping the environment, such as improving air quality for everyone.

Active Travel England describes it as travelling from one place to another through physically active means. So whenever you swap out your car journey for scooting, walking, or cycling, they all contribute to Active Travel!

So how can you do that? How could you be active and travel at the same time?

Here are some ways you can be active and travel at the same time!

  1. Walk, cycle, scoot or wheel to your local supermarket. Fun fact, an average person can burn 150 calories per hour by simply strolling through the supermarket. So, imagine if you also walked to your local shop too, you would double the gains.
  2. Walk, cycle, scoot or wheel to work. Did you know 2/3 of car journeys are under 2 miles, which is equivalent to 15-30 minutes of walking time? An estimate of 3000-3500 steps is a good proxy for 30 minutes of walking. So, if you are able to walk within 30 minutes to your workplace, why not do so? Read more about how walking every day benefits your overall health!
  3. If you can’t do your whole journey actively, can you walk, cycle or scoot to your local train station to catch a train to work? Or can you try to park a bit further away from your destination and walk/cycle the rest of your way?
  4. Meeting some friends for dinner in the city? If you live or work close by or are under 3 miles away, why not scoot, cycle or walk over instead of driving and worrying about finding a car park?

Overall thoughts

Swapping car journeys and changing up your routine journeys might feel daunting. After all, it is sometimes more convenient to drive. However, active travel is much quicker than you think! Most people overestimate how long it will take them to walk, and underestimate how long it takes to drive.

With better maintained roads and the help of our digital gadgets, active travel has never been easier. As we walk into the year of 2023, why not try to get out in nature more by travelling more actively?

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15 Minute Cities

15-minute cities (20-minute neighbourhoods) have been a hot top topic as of late, causing split opinions. Some people are for the idea, and some people are strongly against it.

The idea is to make amenities more accessible. By improving walking and cycling routes whilst increasing the number of amenities available within a 15 minute walking/cycling distance. This distance is roughly a 1-mile radius on foot, and a 3-mile radius on a bicycle.

Making cities more accessible means providing more essential amenities such as GP surgeries, banks, and schools. This will reduce the need for harmful motorised vehicles and therefore make for a healthier environment.

What the people want

‘YouGov’ survey results have shown that most brits would support their local authority of making any changes necessary to implement 15-minute cities. However, it is accepted that in rural area this will be a much harder task.

“Around nine in ten believe that people should have a bus stop (90%), and a post box (87%) within a 15-minute walk of their home. Having medical facilities such as a pharmacy (85%) and a GP surgery (83%) should also be included in the target according to most Britons. However, less than half see the need for a shopping centre (28%), restaurant (38%) or hairdressers (46%) to be close by. “

Banks, Pharmacies, and surgeries are among the most desired and important amenities but are currently going unfulfilled. The unbalance in amenities it seems, is the main reason the public have to use their cars.

Why there is such uproar

The 15-minute city message has perhaps been misinterpreted, as it has sparked wild socialist theories that suggest the government want to isolate people to restricted areas, stripping them of their freedom…

Whereas others struggle to see where this has come from, how could having everything you need within 15 minutes be considered isolated? The idea does not intend to restrict people from leaving their ‘areas’, the idea aims to put everything within walking and cycling distance.

There is nothing worse than having to drive 20 minutes to another town for a simple prescription, or to post a parcel!

Where 15 minute cities are in use

The concept is currently being used large cities such as Melbourne and Paris, and all the results are positive.

Paris adopted this idea in 2020; where they added more local amenities and increased cycle lanes which resulted in a rise in local businesses due to the increased foot traffic, specifically bakeries!

Isn’t this what we love about going on holiday? Walking around, stopping at a local café or bar, visiting the bakery in the morning… This is what 15-minute cities could bring.

Electric scooter hire has also had huge success in Paris, with 20% of scooter journeys replacing car journeys. This suggests that where people are leaving their cars, they’re happily substituting with a great sustainable alternative; and usage is increasing each year!

How we can benefit

The concept has been proposed to provide benefits to communities, with health and accessibility at the forefront. Once we stop relying on our cars, we will see great improvements on all other aspects in our society.

The main goal of 15 minute cities is to make it easier to use active travel to get from A to B, but why not get a head start! Here’s how you can start to incorporate active travel into your daily life.

See YouGov article here.

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Sustainable Travel – 5 reasons to use it in your everyday life

We wanted to highlight 5 important reasons why YOU should incorporate sustainable travel into your everyday life. What we find is; it’s good for you and good for your community. Here are the 5 reasons:

  1. Environmental impact
  2. Health benefits
  3. Financial savings
  4. Community engagement
  5. Future impact

Environmental impact

Reducing single occupancy car use helps to lower greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, contributing to a more sustainable environment.

The transportation sector is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, and single occupancy vehicles are a major contributor to this problem, producing approximately 180g of CO2 per kilometre. These pollutants released into the atmosphere are largely contributing to climate change and air pollution.

By reducing single occupancy vehicle use and incorporating sustainable travel options, individuals can help to lower their personal carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment. In addition, relying less on cars and more on sustainable modes of transportation can help to reduce the demand for fossil fuels, which are finite resources that contribute to global warming when burned. Making the switch to sustainable travel options can help to create a more environmentally friendly future for all.

Health benefits

Incorporating sustainable travel such as walking, cycling, or using public transportation into daily life can lead to improved physical and mental health. Walking and cycling can help to improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles and bones, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease; whilst also leading to improved mental health, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.

Although not as ‘physical’ as active travel, using public transportation, can also provide health benefits. Firstly, public transport often can’t take you door to do, therefore having to include walking into your journey.

Not having to worry about driving and parking, (which can be stressful and time-consuming) is better for both our mental and physical health; repeated stress can lead to high blood pressure, which may lead to heart disease or strokes.

Financial savings

Reliance on single occupancy vehicles often leads to high running costs, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance. Owning and operating a car requires a significant investment of money and ongoing expenses such as fuel, oil changes, tyre changes, and insurance. In contrast, using sustainable travel options such as public transportation, walking, or cycling can be a much more cost-effective way to get around.

There are also small indirect costs that can start to add up such as parking fees, tolls, and the cost of congestion. By reducing the use of single occupancy vehicles, individuals can avoid these additional costs and reduce their overall transportation expenses.

Investing in sustainable travel options such as a bicycle or a bus/train pass may be an intimidating upfront cost but is likely to be a smart financial decision in the long-term. Not only can it lead to lower daily expenses, but it can also help individuals save money on health care costs by promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Community engagement

Using sustainable travel options, such as public transportation, can create opportunities for social interaction and community engagement, which is great, especially when you’re new to the area. Public transportation provides a shared space for individuals to come together and interact with one another, promoting a sense of community. It also provides opportunities to connect with people from different walks of life, promoting cultural understanding and diversity.

Whereas driving a single occupancy vehicle can be quite lonely, often involving long periods of time alone in a vehicle. By incorporating sustainable travel options into daily life, individuals have the opportunity to break out of their isolated routines and connect with others in their communities.

Using sustainable travel options can also support local businesses and promote walkable, liveable communities. Walking and cycling can help to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment, encouraging the development of local shops, restaurants, and other amenities that support community engagement and interaction. The idea of liveable communities has already began to come to fruition, in forms of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs), which are gaining popularity and providing positive results.

Future impact

Making a personal commitment to reducing single occupancy car use and incorporating sustainable travel sets a positive example for future generations and helps to create a more sustainable future for all. The choices that individuals make today can have a significant impact on the future and reducing single occupancy car use is a key step towards creating a more sustainable future.

Incorporating sustainable travel into daily life can also help to create demand for more sustainable transportation infrastructure, such as cycle lanes, pedestrian walkways, and public transportation systems. This can lead to the development of more sustainable communities, where walking, cycling, and public transportation are safe and accessible modes of transportation for everyone.

Overall,

making a personal commitment to reducing single occupancy car use and incorporating sustainable travel is an important step towards creating a more sustainable future for all. It sets a positive example for future generations and helps to create a more liveable, healthy, and environmentally friendly world.

Where to start?

To help you get started, here are some great apps and websites to download:

Public transport is a great step towards becoming more sustainable; active travel is even better! See how you can use Active Travel in your everyday travels.

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Cambridge Connect Light Rail Network

 Who is Cambridge Connect?

Cambridge Connect is an independent initiative aimed at creating a sustainable and rapid transit system to address the transport challenges that Cambridge faces. The initiative is not aligned with any political party, organisation, or group and aims to contribute to discussions about medium to long-term solutions based on research and data.

Cambridge Connect is committed to investigating underground Light Rail as the most practical long-term transit solution without impacting the historic city core.

What is Light Rail?

Light Rail is a system of railways usually powered by overhead electrical wires and used for medium-capacity local transportation in metropolitan areas. Light rail vehicles (LRVs) are a technological outgrowth of trams and metros. Light rail transit lines are more segregated from street traffic than tramways, and the several lines of rail will be a combination of both underground and overground. The purpose is to provide a sustainable mode of transport to accommodate the steep incline in population.

Proposal:

The Isaac Newton Line

The Isaac Newton Line will be the main and longest line in this proposal, running for 47km from Cambourne in the west to Haverhill in the southeast. It will be delivered in three phases:

• Phase One

o 20km

o Set to cost £632 million

o From the Girton Interchange to Granta Park via Eddington, the University West Campus, Grange Road, City Centre, Cambridge Central Rail Station, Addenbrookes, Shelford and Sawston.

• Phase Two

o 12km

o Extend from the Girton Interchange to Cambourne.

• Phase Three

o 15km

o Extend from Granta Park to Haverhill.

The Darwin Line:

The Darwin Line would include stops at Clay Farm, Trumpington and Trumpington Meadows (near M11).

• Phase One

o 2 km

o Would include the southern spur of the converted guided busway to Trumpington, linking key residential, commercial, educational, health and employment centres in Cambridge and the nearby area.

• Phase Two

o 6.5 km

o Would extend from the University of Cambridge West Campus to the Science Park and Cambridge North Station. This line would also include stops at Darwin Green residential development, linking the West Campus to Cambourne (Isaac Newton Line) and to the Science Park (Darwin Line).

There will be 2.6km of tunnel built with one full underground station in Cambridge city centre, costing £100m. One cut and cover station are also proposed for Parkside, costing £50m.

How it could benefit

We are facing economic issues that need action, particularly in the post-pandemic period when the public transport sector has taken a hit, especially bus travel. This is not good in the current state of the climate emergency. The cost-of-living crisis is also affecting the way people travel. Moreover, we’re seeing a rapid increase in population which, if the right infrastructure is not in place, will cause stress on the environment and cities’ capabilities.

Cambridge Connect states that their city will need better public transport infrastructure in 10-15 years due to the forecasted population growth. “It’s projected that ~120,000 more people will be residents in Cambridge City and the surrounding South Cambs District by 2031 than in 2011: the equivalent of the population of Cambridge City again.”

A light rail system of this size is likely to take 10–15 years. Therefore, Cambridge Connect is extremely keen to turn this proposal into a reality.

What do you think? Are you for, or against the Light Rail concept?

Link to case studies: https://www.cambridge-connect.uk/resources/case-studies/

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The Rise Of Cargo Bikes



What are cargo bikes? 

Some may have heard the phrase thrown around and for some, this is a completely new subject, but cargo bikes have the potential to revolutionise transportation and be the best new mode of transport to fight climate change. 

Cargo refers to the haulage of goods from one place to another, so quite simply a cargo bike is one that is designed, built, and strengthened specifically to carry goods/items: serving as an environmentally friendly substitute for cars, vans, and even lorries! 

Cargo bikes have been around for longer than you think, new to some and not properly utilised; perhaps ignored once the motorised vehicle took off.  

Demand for cargo and e-cargo bikes has grown significantly within the last few years, especially with the pandemic which has changed people’s attitudes and day-to-day lives. Around 2,000 cargo bikes were sold in the UK for commercial use in 2020 which has continued to increase tenfold in 2022 due to the increased urgency on climate change and agreements to reach net zero. 

You also have the option to go up a price bracket to an e-cargo bike; these aren’t fitted with a throttle of any sort; you still have to pedal! The electric element is there to merely assist with the peddling, therefore taking the stress off the legs which allows the rider to go for longer and ride inclines with relative ease. 

The cargo bike range has grown due to the rise in popularity, now transitioning more so to e-cargo bikes, but the luxury comes with added expense. However, in comparison to the costs of buying and running a car or van, e-cargo bikes are still sold at a much lower price, are more sustainable, and present a huge opportunity for UK retailers.  

Who uses them? 

Due to the vast range of cargo bikes available now, there are options available for all purposes; anyone can use them.  

Companies have been transitioning to cargo bikes as an alternative for vans and cars, as they can and are being used for delivering everything and anything: post, food, and even people. For example, Pedal Me is a cargo bike delivery service based in London which has gained popularity over recent years with its team of trained delivery drivers. With detachable trailers and a cargo max load of 150kg, they are showing that bikes could be the way forward to combat congestion and CO2 emissions. The company also gained publicity when they were able to transport vulnerable people around during the pandemic; when public transport poses a risk, a bike taxi provides the perfect solution; and is likely to get you there quicker too!  

It’s fair to say that the use of cargo bikes is possibly easier and more accessible in densely populated areas such as cities; especially for deliveries, as they can provide the last stint of the delivery with relative ease. However, the transition to e-cargo bikes provides a much easier, less strenuous journey for the rider, with some e-cargo bikes boasting a range of up to 60 miles, making journeys in the countryside a smaller issue. 

Where can I get one and how much will it cost? 

Cargo bike is a broad term as there are so many different options available to suit your needs, which also makes them vary in price. Regular cargo bikes with no electric assist can price upwards of £900 new and when given the electric assist some will tip over the £1500 mark, which is more than most regular bikes; but perhaps an essential addition in particular situations than to the regular cargo bike. So, is it worth it? 

The added electric assist will push the range up to several thousands of pounds, a large investment for those that are not using the bike frequently or for business purposes. Although the prices hike up with this added luxury, and therefore this isn’t for everyone; we’re certain you’ll be thankful for the electric assist when the load gets heavy, you’re faced with steep inclines and loaded up with two children, their stuff, and the weekly shop.   

In summary of the initial cost of an e-bike: they’re more expensive than most bikes, but when evaluated as a replacement for a car or a van, etc; the cost is considerably lower. It’s a one-off payment with no running fees which can provide the same use as a car and even more.  

Why you should consider one… 

It’s a unique selling point that stands out to customers and to the competition, putting you in the spotlight for making a difference and contributing to the net-zero goal. By replacing vans/cars with cargo bikes you will be able to avoid several tonnes of CO2 each day and reduce the costs for your business.  

For leisure use of a cargo bike, it’s another great investment. It can provide all the positive effects that a regular bike provides plus the added extras of being generally practical and a great substitute to your typical modes of transportation.  It can provide a cheaper and more sustainable alternative to a second car; emitting approximately 0kg of CO2 and once you’ve paid the initial investment, its costs approximately £0 to run. 

We understand that this can be a large investment for something you’re perhaps uncertain about, but to put your mind at ease, you can visit a Babboe store to test ride. Who knows, this could completely replace your car! 



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What is net zero and how can you help?

The term net zero is the world’s answer to stopping climate change. On the 29th of June 2019, the UK became the first major economy to pass laws to end our contribution to climate change and pledged to become net zero by 2050.

The term net zero refers to reducing emissions to their lowest amount through energy efficient measures and then using offsetting as a last resort to balance remaining hard to remove emissions. 

Energy efficiency measures include simple changes such as: double glazing, cavity wall insulation, and efficient light bulbs.

Net zero can also be understood as achieving a balance between carbon emitted into the atmosphere, and the carbon removed from it. By extension, net zero means driving down your personal emissions from your home and lifestyle to the lowest you can and then offset any remaining hard to remove emissions.

Net Zero Week 2nd -8th July 2022

Before you start reducing your personal emissions, why not check out the WWF Footprint calculator to check your environmental footprint?

The reason behind having net zero week is to introduce the concept worldwide and to encourage everyone to all make a change in their respective lifestyle. Achieving net zero can not be done by one person or one country, it must be done globally.  o here are some starting points we’ve gathered for you.

What can you do for Net Zero week?

It may be overwhelming to think about what you can do to contribute to a net zero environment. In truth, it is simple! Here is a list of actions that you can challenge yourself to this week:

  • Switch your regular transport to another alternative to reduce emissions. Can you cycle to town to meet your friends? Can you cycle to your grocery shop?
  • Switch off your lights, electric, or gas appliances when not in use. Around one-fifth of the UK’s total carbon emissions come from our homes, with 40% coming from heating. Are you watching TV in your living room? Can you switch off the lights in your bedroom and your bathroom extractor fan?
  • Could you open your windows for fresh air and breeze, instead of using an electric fan?
  • Recycle humidifier water to water your plants.
  • Fill up your car only half the tank to be more economical.
  • Collect and recycle food waste. Have you got a food waste bin? The UK wastes £10bn a year on food waste. Food production is responsible for 25% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. If you don’t have one, have you thought about composting your household food waste?
  • Wash your clothes at 30 degrees and avoid using the tumble dryer.
  • Take a shorter shower and have fewer baths.

Simple lifestyle changes such as the above are doable without cost. However, if you would like to make your home net zero, you could:

  • Efficient water management. Reduce your water consumption by replacing the shower head with a water efficient single spray showerhead, and a water-saving tap.  
  • Generate your own energy – such as having solar panels installed on your roofs, or wind turbines to be mounted on one of the poles standing around your house to generate electricity for your household use such as charging your electric vehicle.
  • Have an efficient heating system running on low carbon fuel – To reach net zero carbon emissions target, we will need to reduce the carbon emissions from heating homes by 95% over the next 30 years. Visit the Energy Saving Trust website for tips about what you can do to lower your carbon emissions and save money on heat pumps, boilers, electric heating, solar water heating, heating controls, and more.

There are many more things you can do about turning your home net zero. Click here to learn more about other measures.

Why should you get involved in Net Zero Week?

The world is battling to keep the global temperature within 1.5 degrees. If we pass the 1.5 degree limit, the impacts of global warming could be irreversible and catastrophic. By achieving net zero, we would be able to keep the global temperature within the 1.5 degree mark.

Other than significant environmental benefits, achieving net zero by making your home energy-efficient will also help you save a lot of money every month and reduce your personal carbon emissions. Simple lifestyle changes could also help you save a lot of money in the long run, and help with your physical health.

If you don’t know where to start, why not start by switching your regular transport to another alternative, and travel actively to reduce your personal emissions?

COP26 identified that transport accounts for 30% of global carbon emissions, with 72% of its emissions coming from road transportation, and 80% from private cars. Active Travel can bring huge benefits to our communities, health, and environment.

If you would like to know how to become net zero with your travel, please contact us and we will be more than happy to help.

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Streets For The People

As the challenging race to net-zero has begun, we look at the efforts made by the UK Government and take some insight from successful low carbon areas overseas.

To save our planet, must we not prioritise the ICE vehicles (Internal Combustion Engine) and make our streets for the people and not for the machines.

Green Zones

Perhaps more formally known as ‘Clean Air Zones’, ‘green zones’ are mostly in place within busy pedestrian areas. They restrict certain cars from entering, however, if they do, they must pay a charge. This method has been identified as an effective way to reduce dangerous air pollution to those that live in cities and built-up areas. But do we have to be stricter? Fines will deter most from entering these zones, but the question is why allow ICE vehicles within the inner-city limits at all?  In most cases, driving is the slowest option; and when you have options to walk, cycle, scooter, or take the available forms of public transport, driving becomes a burden. Studies have shown that being stuck in daily heavy traffic causes one to be impatient, leading to higher chronic stress, which can make people vulnerable to other diseases and even depression.

The Dutch Way

The Dutch way is to focus all attention on pedestrians and bicycles, the country is now at a stage where bicycles outnumber people. To divert focus, we look at Utrecht as an example; it is the fastest growing city in the Netherlands, and you can see why people would want to live here. From protests in the 70’s due to an abundance of car-related deaths, laws and infrastructure began to change to accommodate safer streets for the people of Utrecht, and now under 15% of journeys into the city are made by the car. Roads have changed, motorways have been demolished and they are reaping the benefit from this decision. From reducing air pollution and therefore healthcare costs, Utrecht are estimated to save around £250 million a year… in which they put straight back into enhancing the infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians. A state-of-the-art multi-storey bicycle garage is a recent staple for Utrecht’s community, only with plans to improve on and make bigger as the demand for cycle parking continues to rise.

There could be worse problems…

Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTN)

LTN are quiet, smaller roads formerly used as cut-throughs that have been shut off to large vehicles so that pedestrians and cyclists can travel safer. The concept of LTN invites more of a community feel, where one can meet friends without noisy vehicles, feel safe when crossing the road and avoid harmful emissions from the abundance of traffic at a standstill.  

It seems there are mixed opinions on the introduction of LTN, they often cause a divide in the public opinion. LTN are heavily criticised in London where they have been tested, as delivery drivers can’t drop off deliveries and where roads are closing, others are said to become more congested. The general worry is that traffic blocked on one street will merely pick up on another. However, there is evidence of “traffic evaporation”, meaning that this has had an effect and people are changing the way they travel shorter journeys.

Although people are hesitant of LTN and the plan to create more exclusive spaces for pedestrians rather than motorised vehicles; they are improving the air we breathe, as research demonstrates that where LTN are introduced, people walk and cycle more, air quality improves, and people come to like their local area more. They also improve the local economy, providing increased foot traffic into highstreets shops. A Living Streets case study found that people who walk to the high street are likely to spend up to 40% more than people who drive to the high street.

What’s Next?

To conclude; efforts are being made by the UK Government, mainly due to their very ambitious targets, but nonetheless, action is being taken. It’s difficult to make large changes over a short period of time, but with restricted zones and pedestrians becoming the focus there is hope that more cities in the UK will follow behind the Dutch way of transport where we will disregard ICE vehicles and reduce harmful levels of emissions to make liveable streets for the people

Credit to: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-07-05/how-the-dutch-made-utrecht-a-bicycle-first-city



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Thinking about cycling? Here is a guide to help you get started!

With summer approaching, many of you might be considering cycling to get out and about, instead of driving. We understand that not everyone is an avid cyclist, or maybe you’re not too confident when it comes to cycling.

That is why here at Smarter Travel, we would like to advise, guide, and support you in all ways possible.

DO YOU OWN A BIKE?

If you don’t but are keen to try cycling, why not ask a friend or a family member if you could borrow a bike from them? Borrowing a bike from a friend or family has no cost implications to start with, and they can even show you some of their own favourite cycle routes whilst you get established.

If this isn’t an option, then look up rental bikes in your area:

In Norwich for example, Beryl has over 580 bikes available. All you need to do is download the Beryl app, sign up, and check the map to see where your closest Beryl bay is and you are ready to go.

In Suffolk, if you are looking for bike hire or rentals, check out the Suffolk Cycle Hire website. They have a great range of bikes available, and they even deliver bikes to your doorstep.

Borrowing a bike or renting one is a great start for any beginner. This way you can explore and build confidence with your cycling.

As a resident of Boyton Place, you are entitled to claim a £100 cycle store voucher if you complete our short travel survey. The voucher can be used for getting some new equipment. You could also look to join the Haverhill cycling club . They have different levels of Sunday cycling rides.

  • Cycle to work Scheme

If you would like to start cycling to work, check if your employer has a [HR1] cycle to work scheme.  This is an employee benefit supported by the government that saves you 25-39% on a bike and accessories to get you started on cycling to work. The cycle to work schemes can be different with each company, so check with your company to see what they have to offer!

WHERE TO GO?

Now that you have a bike sorted, where to go now?

  • Start with a plan. Either for leisure or commuting, research your routes. Check your local community forums, local parks, or National Trust for open spaces to get out on your bicycle. You might even find a local cycling group to join.
  • Google maps. Simply enter your destination and starting point, it will automatically show you various routes, and you can switch between walking, cycling, driving, and train travel. If you hover your mouse on the lower-left square, Google maps will also show you trails, dedicated cycle paths, bike-friendly routes, and unpaved trails. We advise that you check that thoroughly, since footways are paths that are set aside for pedestrians, and it is an offence to cycle along them.
  • Cycle Streets is also a great website to plan your routes. Like Google Maps, you only need to enter your destination and starting point, and it will show you three route options: the fastest route, the quietest route, and a balanced route option. It also shows you journey time, distance, calories burnt and CO₂ saved by cycling.

Learn more about cycling in Norfolk and Suffolk, or contact us for more information.

NOT A CONFIDENT CYCLIST?

Not a problem! Did you know there are plenty of courses and resources from various organisations that support people to cycle?

  • For our Norfolk residents, look up Smart Cycle Training. It is accredited by the Department of Transport, and Bikeability, a Charitable organisation with a vision to ensure everyone has the confidence to cycle and enjoy it. They have worked with other qualified instructors delivering necessary training for schools, companies, and other organisations, they also deliver one on one training.
  • Little Riders: They offer group training, one to one sessions, and more!
  • Bikeability: This platform shows all the academies near and far, for any age group, offering all types of courses.

Beryl also offers free minutes for all Bikeability learners.

ANY OTHER TIPS?

  1. a cycling companion along with you for support.
  2. Check the Highway Code regularly, the government’s guidelines regarding how different vehicles can share the road together safely.
  3. Understand essential hand signals. With more people choosing cycling as a means of transport every day, it is crucial that you know the basic signals to ensure your own safety and for the drivers around you.
  4. Be seen and protect yourself. Although it is not a legal requirement that you should wear a helmet when cycling, it is strongly advised that you do so. Stay safe by being seen, and wear florescent items such as reflective clothing and working lights. Look up cycling accessories and clothes from sites such as Wiggle and Halfords.
  5. Get a good bike. Check out the We are Cycling UK or Love to Ride website for more guidance on starting to cycle.

TIPS FROM SMARTER TRAVEL AVID CYCLISTS:

Our director Martin, who cycles into our Norwich office a couple of times week, suggested that:

“It is important to avoid doing too much too soon as a beginner. When getting started, make sure to learn how to use different gears on your bike to get the most out of the bicycle. Try the gears on an off-road cycleway, away from traffic to get used to them! And his golden tip is to check the ABCs (air, brakes and chain) before every ride.”

Our Smarter Travel Associate, Ray, who also cycles into our Norwich office, but everyday, suggested that:

Make sure that you have a bike that is the right size for you. There are lots of stuff online that work out what size bike is best for your height. Get a good bike lock such as a d-lock and register if it’s a new bike. Getting a decent puncture kit, even a small one could possibly save you up a lot of money long term. If you are not a confident cyclist, sign up for cycle training.”

If you would like more information, please speak to one of your Travel Plan Coordinators, and we will be more than happy to assist you.


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Car Clubs

Are you unsure what a Car Club is, and how to use them?  

I joined and went through the stages so I could share my experience with you and hopefully clarify any doubts you may have.

So, what actually are Car Clubs?

Car Clubs are essentially pay-as-you-go community car hire schemes where members can hire vehicles from convenient locations across the UK.  Most clubs have a range of vehicles from vans and cars in different sizes to fit multiple purposes. 

Several companies in the UK offer this service, Enterprise and Zip Car Club are the two biggest clubs; however, the company we use in Norwich is Norfolk Car Club, operated by Co Wheels. 

Joining fees

There’s a small fee of £25 to become a member of the Norfolk Car Club, you then pay for the duration of your booking. Per mile/Hour etc, which obviously varies based on how long you use the car for.

The booking process

I booked a day in advance via the website, which I found is very quick and easy once your account is set up.

You start by typing in your location, the date of your trip, the duration you require and then the fun part… choosing a car.  

Most vehicles are small hatchbacks, there are lots of VW in my area such as Up! or Golfs, with few vans and estate options. You are free to choose what you would like, but we recommend making the decision based on what you’ll need it for. Vans can get booked up quickly, so I’d advise booking at least a week in advance. If you don’t need a particular car type, you shouldn’t have to worry as much. 

I needed the car for a few hours but overestimated on booking times as I was travelling to somewhere new and wasn’t sure exactly how long I needed.

I went for the closest car to the office for convenience, which was just at the bottom of St Mathews Road, Norwich.  The cars all have designated parking spots which is handy if you live close by. The car in the spot was a little red VW UP, a perfect economical city car and very easy to drive. 

No keys? 

Unlocking the car is possibly the strangest obstacle you’ll come across.

After registering with Norfolk Car Club, you will be sent a card to the chosen address; this card will be your key to gain access to all Co Wheel cars across the country. You must tap your card on the pad in the front windscreen, wait for the green light to flash, you will then hear the doors unlock.  

The car is not completely keyless, you will find the keys inside the glove box. Make sure you do your checks, and you will be ready to start your journey. 

My journey was estimated to take an hour from the Smarter Travel office to the development I was visiting in Red Lodge. The journey is mainly on dual carriageways, and my chosen vehicle had no issues.  I arrived, left the keys in the glove box, and locked the car by tapping my card on the windscreen.

Refuelling

Norfolk Car Club ask that you leave the car with at least a quarter of fuel left in the tank. I was nearing that point, so before I set off, I checked the fuel station locator on the All Star Card website. To locate a compatible fuel station, you must first find out which card you have, this is normally slotted into the left-hand corner of the onboard computer (on the inside of the windscreen). With this you will be able to locate all the fuel stations that refill car club cars.

Fill up the car (make sure it’s the correct fuel) and pay by just inserting the card as you normally would, no pin, just give the cars mileage to the sales attendant.

Satisfaction… 

Car Clubs are perfect for those who live in a city, where there is no need for a car as you can reach everything, you need by either walking, cycling or a short bus journey; when you do by chance need to use a car, if it’s just once a week to do the shopping, or to visit family then it’s a handy membership to hold and cheaper than owning a car. 

Even for those not living in a city it can serve a purpose, those that have but do not use their second car as frequently as they thought, or those that are moving house or collecting furniture, you may need to hire a van for a few hours. 

They are also excellent for business use; the Smarter Travel team uses the Norfolk Car Club on most site visits, serving essentially as a company car that you share with others. The ability to share with others allows for fewer cars on the road and therefore less Co2 emissions.

To summarise; it’s great for infrequent journeys, cheaper than running and maintaining a car and ultimately leads to fewer cars on the road.