Thegardenstrust.org



Mr. Brown's Green Directions, the Capability Brown Festival’s Sustainable Travel Toolkit, was created to provide support and guidance to sites both large and small, private, public and commercial in using sustainable transport to help market and promote different modes of access as part of the wider public offer. Sustainable transport, particularly cycling and walking, can help to generate new visitor audiences as well as creating a positive visitor experience. The toolkit aims to address transport and access issues and provide common sense cost effective or cost neutral suggestions for overcoming those barriers, taking into account that many Capability Brown sites are in areas often less well served by public transport. It is intended for use by sites of all scales with varying levels of experience opening to the public.Thank you to Burton Constable, Hatfield Forest (National Trust), Kirkharle, Scampston, Sherborne Castle and Wallington (National Trust) for their generous time and help in preparing this document and for kindly agreeing to be our case studies. Legal disclaimer: Everything within this document reflects the legal standing as of June 2016 – please check current legislation if reading at a later date.Capability Brown Festival Sustainable Travel ToolkitIntroductionThe first visitors to see Capability Brown’s handiwork would almost certainly have arrived by horse and carriage. They would also most likely have been wealthy and privileged, arriving by invitation to see the private gardens and landscapes that had benefitted from his hand. In the 300 years since Brown’s birth much has changed, and now the modern horseless carriage has become the predominant means by which the public can travel to see his work, in some cases without any need for prior invitation. However, the car is also one of the greatest threats to the future of the natural world that Brown so brilliantly sculpted and managed. It is fitting that the Capability Brown Festival should lead in seeking to promote more environmentally friendly modes of travel in celebrating the 300th anniversary of Brown’s birth. What would Brown have made of this initiative?While it is customary to assume that most people only wish to drive to sites, there are many current and potential visitors who may prefer to visit using environmentally sustainable (green/active) travel modes for some or all of their journey. This toolkit is an easy to use reference guide for Capability Brown site managers to realise the potential for green travel to their sites. It will enable them to assess greener travel options that are available now and the next steps to advertise, exploit and improve these. In doing so they should be better able to protect the environment, manage visitor access and, if desired, increase visitor numbers.Site staff and volunteers may also benefit from easier access to sustainable transport information. As people with an interest in historic houses, gardens and landscapes, visitors to Capability Brown sites are likely to be supportive of conservation issues. While they may not all be able to take advantage of sustainable modes when they visit, they will nonetheless be impressed if they can see that sites are taking these issues seriously. ContentsHow to use this toolkit4Websites7Onsite information and signing to the site 13Cycling21Walking29Bus transport 35Rail transport 39Visitors arriving by car 44Partners49Green travel strategy and staff and volunteer training52Assessment matrix recording sheet56The model green transport friendly site and conclusion58 Section 1. How to use the toolkitThis toolkit will provide the following:An explanation of where the subject of each section fits within the context of green transport to give you understanding of the bigger picture.A simple way to assess how your site provides for green travelling visitors now.An assessment matrix showing what your next steps might be in improving access for green visitors.A road map for longer term strategic planning.Examples from real Capability Brown sites of how this toolkit can be applied.Understanding the bigger pictureIt is tempting to assume that the vast majority of visitors to Capability Brown sites come by car. For more remote sites this is undoubtedly true, however, with more urban sites it may be surprising how many do not. Even remote sites can be convenient stops for people who are out walking or cycling in the countryside, and this may be a way to build a relationship with visitors who will regularly return and recommend the site to friends and family. Many visitors may prefer to come by means other than cars but are put off by a lack of information about alternative modes of travel and how they might go about finding the information they need easily, even where the information might exist. An increasing proportion of the population finds it difficult to continue driving as they get older, but they may still wish to visit places on day trips and holidays, or to continue volunteering. Your sustainable transport offer can be a fantastic marketing opportunity too. We hope this toolkit will enable you to think beyond accepted norms and ask the right questions to find those alternatives and how to promote them. Do not be surprised if you have a few “I never realised that” moments. Assessing where you are nowThere is no competition prize for the best green travel site. We want you to do the best you can do with whatever resources you have (or can realistically expect through new partnerships). Being honest is essential. You are where you are. What is important is how you move forward. Our assessment matrix describes the attributes of sites at different stages along the road to green travel excellence (the steps are ranked 0 to 5). To use the matrix simply find the descriptions which meet where your site is now. Then look at the descriptions of attributes of sites that rank higher than yours and decide which of these attributes you could implement quickly and start planning for those that might take longer. Some of these attributes may be outside your control, however, as you move forward new opportunities might arise that make some or all attainable.When you’ve read through the whole toolkit you should use the table in the penultimate section to record your own assessment ranking for each section and work out your overall ranking.Examples from Capability Brown sitesThe toolkit was trialled at a number of Capability Brown sites while it was being put together. This has given us some good examples to share in the following sections. Feedback gathered during this process has helped us to edit the toolkit so that it is as user friendly as possible. Useful web linksUseful web links and tips on where to search for online information are provided at the end of each section.The model green transport friendly siteThe final section describes the model green transport friendly site. It should be stressed that this description is an ideal and as such it might seem a long way off, particularly if you skip straight to this section before reading the rest of the toolkit. Because it is a model it describes a site where everything is possible. No such site actually exists. However, there will be elements of this site that you can aspire to emulate.Section 2. WebsitesYour website is one place where you can make real changes quickly. It will be the first port of call for many, perhaps even the majority, of your visitors. If the site home page advertises discounts for green visitors this can give an immediate message to all that sustainable travellers are not only welcomed but encouraged. Potential visitors viewing your website will most likely be seeking three basic pieces of informationWhat is there to see?How much will it cost?How do we get there?Easy to navigateGood websites will provide this information in a way that is easy to find. A few clicks should take you intuitively to what you want to know. However, if the green transport information you find when you get there is minimal, or missing, that is what this section hopes to help you change. Example – Kirkharle’s website has simple navigation buttons to all information at the top of the pageDetailed and easily understood information on green transportIf your website has general issues with navigation and layout these should be addressed, preferably before dealing with the specific information provided. That information should be comprehensive, where available, and user friendly. Information about green modes should be placed at the top of the page on travel to the site so that potential visitors have to scroll beyond it to find out about driving. Good links to bus and train timetablesMost visitors need more than a postcode to enter in a Satnav (although this may be fine for a small number of cyclists with cycle GPS devices). They require a bit more help. Simply saying there is a bus stop two miles away or a station five miles away is not enough. Potential visitors want to know where buses to that bus stop come from, how frequently, what they cost and their service numbers. The same applies to trains. Links to downloadable timetables and the right pages on other websites are a minimum that can be provided where suitable nearby services exist. -59690378460The Hatfield Forest website is a standard National Trust design. Its content is more detailed than many websites and gives an idea of what is possible with modest effort. It gives links to local cycle route maps and detailed information on bus stop locations (but does not mention that the bus service and cycle routes link to the Airport and train station).0The Hatfield Forest website is a standard National Trust design. Its content is more detailed than many websites and gives an idea of what is possible with modest effort. It gives links to local cycle route maps and detailed information on bus stop locations (but does not mention that the bus service and cycle routes link to the Airport and train station).CASE STUDIES-59690378460Travel to the site from bus stops and stationsBus and train passengers also like to know how to get from the station or bus stop to the site and here downloadable route plans are a great help, especially where the route for pedestrians differs from the main entrance for car traffic. Even if you haven’t got a website wizard on your team, it is quite easy to set up a Facebook page where these downloads can find a home.Example map showing walking/cycling route from station to Eden Project in Cornwall. (Not a Capability Brown site)Route maps for walkers and cyclists will also be very popular. A quick web search may locate where somebody else has already plotted these routes and you simply need to link to their pages.0Travel to the site from bus stops and stationsBus and train passengers also like to know how to get from the station or bus stop to the site and here downloadable route plans are a great help, especially where the route for pedestrians differs from the main entrance for car traffic. Even if you haven’t got a website wizard on your team, it is quite easy to set up a Facebook page where these downloads can find a home.Example map showing walking/cycling route from station to Eden Project in Cornwall. (Not a Capability Brown site)Route maps for walkers and cyclists will also be very popular. A quick web search may locate where somebody else has already plotted these routes and you simply need to link to their pages.Reassuring cyclists that they can park their bikes securelyCyclists like to know that they will be able to park their bikes somewhere safe and secure at the site, so information about the location and number of cycle parking spaces, perhaps even a photograph, is a good idea. They may also like information on routes to the site and in the area around it. Again these might already have been plotted elsewhere and be available as a link. Cyclists, walkers and those travelling by bus may need a secure cloakroom (or reception desk) where they can leave bulky bags and pushchairs to enable them to explore a house, garden or landscape during their visit. The website information can let them know that this service is available. Similarly knowing that wheelchairs or mobility scooters are available can help reassure older or less able travellers, or their carers, that the visit is manageable.Useful links: The Eden Project website is a good, but not perfect, example of how green travel modes might be advertised: Centre for Alternative Technology website is also a good example of the principles set out above: The Blenheim Palace website is a good example of how further travel information is offered via links to appropriate websites: Website ranking matrixRankingDescription of attributes0The website has no information on how to get to the site1There is information on how to travel to the site but this may be hard to findInformation on green modes is minimal e.g. may mention where nearest station or bus stop is but not explain how to get to the site from thereNo mention of walking or cycling to siteImplicit (or explicit) message that visitors are expected to drive to this site2There is information on green modes available but this is limited and may be hard to findNearest station mentioned and bus service mentioned but at best there is no more than a link to an external siteCycling is mentioned but may simply be a link to the Sustrans websiteTravel by car still first option shown and has most information3Information on travel to site will be reasonably easy to findThere is information on how to reach the site using public transport. This will include bus service numbers and links to external sites. There will be information on nearest station and link to find more informationIt is evident that using sustainable modes is encouragedCycling is specifically mentioned and there will be some reference to local routes although this may not be very specific. There will be links to external information. There may be mention of cycle parking provisionDriving to site still most prominent option4There is very good information on all modes of travelOption for public transport will be clearly described with information of frequency of buses and trains and how to get to site from local public transport hubsWalking routes to, from and around the site will be shown with maps available for downloadCycling routes to, from and around the site will be described and downloadable maps provided. Location of cycle parking will be described.There may be discounts offered for visitors by green modes and a general feeling of welcome and promotionHowever, car travel will still be very prominent and may still appear as the first option5As previous (4), however, green modes will be given clear precedence. To find information about driving to the site you will have to scroll past the green modesThere will be good discounts available to green visitors and these will be advertised on the home pageThere will be a clear message that the site not only welcomes green travel modes but would prefer visitors to use them if they canSection 3. Onsite information and signing to the siteVisitors to your site may come by car now, but if they are presented with clear, well presented information about green travel alternatives during their visit many may choose to return by those green modes in future. If onsite information boards and printed material sing out the advantages and opportunities for green travel to and around the site these will give a very positive message.Green travel information slipIf you give out information on entry why not include a simple leaflet or slip advertising green travel options and any associated discounts? Similarly discounts for green visitors should be advertised clearly at ticket offices and in your café and/or restaurants. National Trust cycling promotion leaflet and posterVisible, well used cycle parkingGood, visible and well used cycle parking also advertises the cycle friendliness of a site to potential future cycle visitors. Even hardened car users may mention the cycle friendliness of the site (and its other green travel alternatives) to friends and acquaintances. Word of mouth advertising can be very powerful, especially for those who have had a good experience at the site and getting to it.Cycle parking overlooked by café and next to main entrance, Burton Constable, East Yorkshire.Signing and maintenanceThe information and experience for visitors at the site are therefore crucial factors. Well maintained and signed facilities and paths leave a favourable impression. Knowledgeable, friendly staff and/or volunteers who can explain options will also help. Signing to the sitePlacing of signs on the highway is governed by Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions. This was reviewed and republished in 2016, and is abbreviated to TSRGD 2016. This has revolutionised and effectively deregulated what was previously a very difficult and restricted process. As a result, negotiating new brown tourism signs should be much easier, although sites will be expected to pay for the design, manufacture and fitting of new signs. They will also have to negotiate the placement of new signs with the specific Highway Authority managing the highway where the signs will be placed. The Highway Authority will also insist that its approved contractors put up any signs. The cost of this can be reduced if new signs can be attached to existing sign posts or lamp columns etc. Placing signs on a site’s own land may require planning permission, although short term advertising, such as banners, is likely to be tolerated without this.If you are considering new brown tourism signs, it is worth contacting other heritage or tourism sites nearby and looking at developing a joint programme to split some of the costs.If you need to raise funds for brown tourism signs, or sustainable transport initiatives, do talk to your regional Heritage Lottery Fund office as the signs may be considered part of audience development and increasing access. HLF application forms ask you about minimising environmental impacts, and looking at improving sustainable transport will help you fulfil this environmental impact criteria towards a successful grant application. .uk/looking-funding/where-we-fund Case study example -59690-4445Interpretation board at Hatfield Forest in Essex (cared for by the National Trust) gives clear information on layout and facilities and illustrates key buildings.0Interpretation board at Hatfield Forest in Essex (cared for by the National Trust) gives clear information on layout and facilities and illustrates key buildings.Case study example -59690378460 This board at Wallington in Northumberland (cared for by the National Trust) (picture on left) indicates surfaced trails, other paths and places of interest. Information post in Hatfield Forest in Essex (cared for by the National Trust) (picture on right) gives clear pictorial information about destinations along a path and who can use the path.0 This board at Wallington in Northumberland (cared for by the National Trust) (picture on left) indicates surfaced trails, other paths and places of interest. Information post in Hatfield Forest in Essex (cared for by the National Trust) (picture on right) gives clear pictorial information about destinations along a path and who can use the path.Case study example -59690378460Information sign in Lake District gives clear information about destinations, distances and who can use the path0Information sign in Lake District gives clear information about destinations, distances and who can use the pathCase study example -59690378460Information sign at Wallington in Northumberland (cared for by the National Trust) gives anticipated walk times. This can help reassure visitors and encourage them to take the chance to explore further0Information sign at Wallington in Northumberland (cared for by the National Trust) gives anticipated walk times. This can help reassure visitors and encourage them to take the chance to explore further Onsite information ranking matrixRankingDescription of attributes0There is no printed information available either on information boards or in leaflets/handouts giving information on how to travel to the site1While there may be no printed or displayed information on how to travel to the site there is some on paths around it although this too is limited2There is reasonable information on getting around the site, some of this printed as either information boards or as leaflets/handouts, however, there is still no obvious linkage to travel to and from the site3There is good information on routes around the site and some of these may be cycledThe cycle parking may be signedPrinted information may show that it is understood that some visitors may return and advise on options to do so by different modes4The excellent information boards and printed material not only show the options to get around the site but advertise links to outside, including local transport hubs, cycle routes and footpathsCycle parking is well signed as are routes that can be cycled around the site5As previous (4) andThere is prominent advertising of how the site can be visited by sustainable modes and also the discounts available to such visitors, with clear encouragement to all to choose these on their next visitSection 4. CyclingCycling is where the easiest wins can be found in attracting green travellers to Capability Brown sites, even those that are very remote. The past decade has seen an explosion in road cycling and cycling club membership has risen dramatically as a result. The number of new bicycles sold in the UK outstrips new car sales year on year. Understanding the potential for cycling and how you might cater for the different types of people cycling is crucial to providing for this group.A wide range of potential cycling visitorsCycling visitors can range from families with young children out for a weekend ride of ten or so miles, to hardened club cyclists who think nothing of covering 100 miles on a Sunday ride. As all Capability Brown sites are accessible by road, at least some of these cyclists will be comfortable accessing them. Cycling can also provide the link to public transport and in particular to rail hubs, even ones you may have considered quite distant. At some rail stations cycle hire (e.g. Bike and Go or Brompton Hire) is now available and this is an additional option that can be linked to your site. Electric assist bikesYou may also be near the Electric Bicycle Network () which is based around sites that offer hire of electric assisted bicycles. Electric bicycles broaden the range of people who have access to cycling, making bicycle journeys feasible for older and/or less agile riders, and the UK market is growing rapidly. Bicycles will typically have a range of around 40 miles which can be extended if you can provide charging facilities at your site. You may even wish to consider becoming a hub for hire of electric or conventional bikes, particularly if there are ridable paths provided around the site.Quiet routes for familiesFor family groups and less confident cyclists, having routes to the site that are mostly quiet and/or motor traffic free is a major factor. These routes do not have to be direct - for many a lot of the fun is the ride to and from the site. If you do not have the expertise to assess these routes yourself then you can probably get help from local cycling groups or clubs. They will be riding the roads and tracks near you and so will have good local knowledge. There may already be cycle route guides to your site that are published online. Local cycling advocates may be happy to plot routes for you and publish them on the internet. Some sites such as Hatfield Forest in Essex are also able to provide cycle routes (and equestrian routes) within the estate as part of the overall attraction.Hatfield Forest in Essex (cared for by the National Trust) is featured on this map of the cycle trail that runs across the northern edge of the site.Cycle clubs and groupsFor more organised cycle clubs, particularly in some areas, weekend and other group rides are often planned around a café stop. If you have a café then you can be that stop, particularly if access to it is free for cycling visitors. No matter how remote your site, you will be within the range of a club ride. Bicycle Belles and other groups (Breeze network, Ride Social) cater particularly for women and those beginning or returning to cycling and arrange regular social rides that would be attracted to Capability Brown sites. The burgeoning number of U3A (University of the Third Age) cycling groups will cycle on weekdays and they fit more closely with the demographic of typical Capability Brown site visitors. You should also remember that those who cycle in groups also go out on solo or family rides. If they have found your site welcoming they are much more likely to visit it again.Hosting cycling eventsCycling event organisers (sportives and charity rides) are often looking for an event base that can accommodate a start/finish area, i.e. with parking, toilets and a café or a stop for riders en route. Such events can be a good way to attract visitors and increase revenue out of season. Having visited once, participants may be tempted to return again for a proper look round. Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire has hosted a number of cycling events in the past and this year is promoting a family cycling day where people can come to explore the park . Kirkharle in Northumberland has built good relationships with local walking and cycling clubs who visit the café on a regular basis. As a result, one of the regular patrons who is a cycle event organiser, is developing a Capability Brown themed cycle ride.Hosting Cycling for Health rides is another good option. These are regular rides for people who have been advised to exercise, often following major illness. The importance of good cycle parkingSheffield stands - each provides for two bikesMaking your site welcoming to cyclists will be achieved by providing good parking in the right place. Cyclists want their bicycles parked where they will not be damaged and where they are constantly overlooked. Cycle parking should always be sited near the main pedestrian entrance or ticket kiosk where there is a constant stream of passing visitors, as long as the visitors are not bumping into the bikes. Hidden at the back of your car park near to the public road is not the right place. The type of parking is also crucial and there are many manufacturers offering a wide range of quality. Sheffield stands are the most common and fine. Non-bespoke cycle parkingIf you don’t have bespoke cycle stands (typically these cost from ?25 - ?75 each to accommodate two bikes plus installation cost), there may be metal railings or other appropriate site furniture that could be made available for parking. If this is clearly signed as an approved cycle parking area, this will certainly help. Group ride organisers will often book ahead for cafés and for these a lockable barn or courtyard would be ideal.Help from your local authorityYour local council may be able to help with cycle parking, both assessing what you have now, where you can put new parking and what type to install. They may even be able to offer some financial assistance. The council should be making efforts to increase cycling and may have a dedicated cycling officer. Their transport planning group will be responsible for cycling and should be able help with parking, general advice on local routes and key local cycling contacts. They should also know of any local cycling initiatives that your site may be able to tap into or partner with.Discounts for cycling visitorsOffering discounts to cycling visitors is another good way to attract them. These can cover café and entry deals. Those using only the café for a group ride are more likely to visit the main site on their return if there is a discount.Linking to long distance cycle routesIf your site is near a long distance cycle route, such as the Coast to Coast (C2C), then onsite accommodation could be very popular. Many businesses on the C2C survive and thrive due to their cycling customers. If you are on or near such a route then you may be able to attract some of those using it if you advertise appropriately and offer a warm welcome.16178378460 Photo 1 - the covered cycle parking at Burton Constable, in the car park. Photo 2 - where a U3A cycling group are parked, using the fence by the café, where they could see their bikes while enjoying an excellent lunch. This was not the group’s first visit. 0 Photo 1 - the covered cycle parking at Burton Constable, in the car park. Photo 2 - where a U3A cycling group are parked, using the fence by the café, where they could see their bikes while enjoying an excellent lunch. This was not the group’s first visit. Case study – Burton Constable, East Yorkshire13335406400 Unused open shed and courtyard area at Sherborne Castle, Dorset. These are the types of spaces where good cycle parking could be provided.0 Unused open shed and courtyard area at Sherborne Castle, Dorset. These are the types of spaces where good cycle parking could be provided.Case study – Sherborne Castle, DorsetUseful links: Most Council websites will have a section which should give some contact details for officers responsible for cycling matters and also local cycling events and initiatives. The council should also know where bike hire is available at local stations although this should also be checked with station operators.Sustrans are responsible for the National Cycle Network (NCN) which may pass near your site. Check out their map at .uk/ncn/mapBritish Cycling have numerous affiliate clubs throughout the UK. Check out their club page at .uk/clubfinderCycling UK (new name for the CTC) also have many clubs around the UK. Check these out at all clubs are British Cycling or Cycling UK affiliated so simply try a search asking e.g. “Cycle clubs near …………………”Information on the Breeze Network which organise rides specifically for women can be found at breeze Cyclenation is the federation of local cycle campaign groups. They have a journey planner that can be accessed from their homepage . Or to find your local campaign groups simply search asking e.g. “MYTOWN cycle campaign group”You can find out more about the electric bicycle network at . They should also be able to tell you about funding options to help you get involved.See also Rail Section 8 for sources of information about bike hire from stations. Cycling ranking matrixRankingDescription of attributes0There is no cycle parking provision and no obvious consideration of cycling as an option for visitors to the site1There is some token cycle parking onsite but this is only a few stands which are not overlooked and/or are of poor design so unlikely to be usedThere is no other serious consideration of cycling visitors2There are a few cycle parking stands which are of reasonable quality and may be reasonably well overlooked There will be some acknowledgement in online and published publicity that recognises people may cycle to the site3The site has regular cycling visitors and there is good, reasonably secure cycle parking, although not enough at peak timesThere is genuine understanding of the need to encourage more cycling visitors and some strategy to achieve thisThere is understanding that cycling can be a link to railway stations And/orThere are some long distance and/or local cycle routes nearby and work is ongoing to attract users of these to the siteA green travel strategy which seeks to increase the number of cycling visitors is being prepared or is at draft stage4The site has regular cycle visitors including large groups (may be on club rides) and there is enough well designed and positioned cycle parking to accommodate them Some of it may be coveredSite publicity advertises local cycle routes to and around the site and also to local rail stations. Cycle routes in the site are clearly marked and signed. There is a very clear message to all visitors that cycling is welcomed and well catered forThere may be discounts for cycling visitors to enter the site and also special deals for them in the café/restaurantThere is a clear green travel strategy which seeks to increase the number of cycling visitors although this will not be fully implemented5As previous (4) and:The green travel strategy is fully implemented and includes:Charging or hire point for the electric cycle network or other cycle hire onsiteExcellent relationship with local cycle groups or clubs who visit regularlyDiscounts for all cycling visitors both in café and for entry to site. These are clearly advertised so that all visitors should be aware of themSite is widely acknowledged as an example of best practice in attracting and catering for cycling visitorsSection 5. WalkingWalking to your site will almost always be combined with use of public transport, either rail or bus. Even urban sites are likely to fit this model. There are some exceptions, particularly where your site is near a long distance walking route such as the Pennine Way. Well signed and maintained routes and pathsYour walking visitors will appreciate well maintained and signed paths. If your maps and information boards show not only the paths around the site but the links to those outside this will broaden their appeal. They should also show walking routes to local bus and train stops where these are close. (See sections 7 and 8 on bus and train transport). The quality of paths is also very important particularly for visitors with wheelchairs, mobility scooters or pushchairs. The availability of a network of accessible paths should be a real selling point for effective marketing. Hand drawn walking route maps (like the one above available at Kirkharle, Northumberland) have been in vogue for ramblers since Wainwright in 1950s. Walking groups and other potential partnersThere will undoubtedly be local Ramblers groups that can be invited to visit your site and who can give invaluable information on local walking routes that you may link to. They may be willing to plan and document routes for you. This could be as a route card like the one shown above on sale for 50p at Kirkharle (the route instructions are on the back). Alternatively routes can be drawn with online mapping like Google maps and link created and shared on your website so that visitors can print the routes off themselves. Local charities such as Age Concern or disability charities are often keen to test out routes as expert volunteers and give you constructive feedback on the accessibility of routes you have planned and developed before you go public. Local authorities and health trusts also promote and even prescribe walking specifically for health, which may provide an opportunity to build a relationship as a venue for a regular walking group. Most local authority and NHS partnerships have an online portal designed to help people work out their own wellbeing plans. This can assist GPs in finding non-medical activities to prescribe alongside medical interventions to help start or improve patients’ access to exercise and cultural activities. Listing your walking routes with your local portal may help raise your walking profile, as will dropping off posters and flyers at local GP surgeries, offices of charities such as Age Concern and volunteer centresInvite your local councillor with responsibilities for health and wellbeing to visit and give them the tour. They can influence your Local Authority’s staff to look at including walking exercise at your site as part of people’s social care support and recovery plans. Long distance walking routesYour site may be near a long distance walking path and be a welcome stop for refreshment, detour or accommodation if this is available. The Long Distance Walkers Association provides mapping and information on such paths and is worth checking out.Discounts for walkersDiscounts for walkers should be similar to those described for cyclists. A section in your café welcoming those wearing muddy boots will enhance your appeal to walkers. If you offer accommodation this can be linked to longer walking routes if these are near.Special EventsMany sites will be ideal to host charity walks. These can include the paths on and off site. The walks may be annual or more frequent. Working with partners will open up possibilities. Another big potential draw is weekly “Park Runs” which have spread in popularity throughout the whole UK. The free 5km runs are held from 9am each Saturday morning and attract on average over 150 runners each. Park runners also tend to tour different runs. Why not become a host? Check it out at hunts, children’s education/adventure trails and nature walks are other types of attractions that you may already be using or could develop to attract families with children.9525311785The above map taken from the GPS Cycle and Walking Routes website shows where the Centenary Way (in red) passes close to Scampston Hall in North Yorkshire. This is an example of a route drawn on Google Maps as explained above. 0The above map taken from the GPS Cycle and Walking Routes website shows where the Centenary Way (in red) passes close to Scampston Hall in North Yorkshire. This is an example of a route drawn on Google Maps as explained above. Case study 1 – Scampston, North YorkshireUseful links: Your local council should be the first port of call. They are responsible for pedestrian provision not only on the highway but also the maintenance and mapping of Public Rights of Way Living Streets (formerly known as the Pedestrians Association) is a national organisation campaigning for pedestrians which has many local initiatives. You can check this out at Ramblers Association can put you in touch with local affiliated groups. Check out GPS site link is above. The Long Distance Walking Association is found at: If you are in or next to a National Park then contact the National Parks Authority who may be able to give excellent advice and assistanceTo find out more about Park Runs visit information on Walking for Health go to .ukWalking ranking matrixRankingDescription of attributes0“Yes we know people walk around the site”1“Yes we know people walk around the site and we even have a map that shows the paths they can use”2The maps and information boards available at the site show the paths around it clearly and we acknowledge some things that may be within walking distance outside – like a bus stop3Maps and information boards give very good information about paths around the site and this includes route guidesThere is acknowledgement of other local walking routes that link to or are close to the site on information boards or published material available to visitors4Maps and information boards give very good information about paths around the site and this includes route guides. The paths are well maintained and signed and also pedestrian interaction with vehicles is well managed There is acknowledgement of other local walking routes that link to or are close to the site on information boards or published material. Where there are local long distance or other path networks close by that are advertised and visitors are encouraged to use them.There may be discounts for walking visitors to enter the site and also special deals for them in the café/restaurantThere is a clear strategy to improve the experience of walkers around and to the site, although this will not be fully implemented5As previous (4) and:The walking strategy is fully implemented and includes:Discounts for all walking visitors both in café and for entry to site. These are clearly advertised so that all visitors should be aware of themWalkers are made very welcome. There is a special section in the café for walkers with mucky boots to sit If there are long distance walks nearby these will be linked to the site and walkers are encouraged to use accommodation onsite if this is availableSite is widely acknowledged as an example of best practice in attracting and catering for walking visitorsSection 6. Bus transportHow close your site is to the nearest bus stop (and the frequency of service) will determine how much you can do to encourage visitors, staff and volunteers to use this mode. Bus transport can be a link to local urban centres and also to local rail stations. It can also, as explained in Section 6, be linked to your site by good, well signed walking routes.Good, accurate information on local busesWhere you do have local bus services, just acknowledging these in printed and onsite information boards is not sufficient. Timetables showing destinations, frequency of services and where they can be accessed should also be easily to hand or to click on if sought on your website. Information on fares and how you can pay on the bus will also be helpful (e.g. exact change required, card payments accepted). There are examples of visitor attractions with combined ticketing for bus and entry which is cheaper than buying them individually (e.g. Stonehenge). The PlusBus scheme allows rail passengers to buy a combined ticket with a bus pass for a small extra cost.Options when no bus service currently existsWhere your site is not currently near a bus service this does not mean it could not be in future. Your local council, Integrated Transport Authority (ITA, formerly Passenger Transport Executive or PTE) and/or local service providers may be persuaded to offer new services that could provide access to your site, even if this is only in peak season. They may, as is the case at Chatsworth House, change their routes to drop and pick up passengers from your site. Other providers serving nearby villages such as the Post Bus or a Community Transport may operate locally and be happy to service the site to help increase patronage. If you are in contact with them you will be in the best position to explore opportunities. Discounts for bus usersOffering discounts for bus users should be the same as for other green modes as described in previous sections.Shuttle busesIt may be viable to offer a shuttle service from your site to the nearest regular service bus stops or train station, particularly in peak season. You may be able to arrange such a service at a fixed rate with a local taxi or private hire firm.13970399415The Yorkshire Coastliner bus stop near the entrance road to Scampston. This links the estate to Scarborough, Filey and Bridlington in the east and to Malton, York, Tadcaster and Leeds in the west. The bus station where it stops in Malton is next to the station and combined ticketing is on offer. 0The Yorkshire Coastliner bus stop near the entrance road to Scampston. This links the estate to Scarborough, Filey and Bridlington in the east and to Malton, York, Tadcaster and Leeds in the west. The bus station where it stops in Malton is next to the station and combined ticketing is on offer. Case study – Scampston, North YorkshireUseful links: Your local council Transport Planning section will be able to advise on current opportunities for bus transport, how and who to contact at your local Integrated Transport Authority (ITA) (if there is one) and other local service providersSix metropolitan areas in the North and Midlands have an ITA which is responsible for public transport in their area. Some sites will be in these areas and should speak to their local ITA about public transport options policy and future developmentsTraveline is a national resource for planning journeys by bus, train and ferry to which commercial operators contribute information private bus service providers – the local council/ Integrated Transport Authority should be able to give advice about theseBus transport ranking matrixRankingDescription of attributes0Staff and volunteers have not really considered if travel to the site is feasible by bus1Bus travel to site has been considered but little done to encourage this by means of advertising Lack of or infrequency of local bus service considered to rule out bus travel as a viable option but no attempt made to contact local bus providers, ITA and/or Highway Authority to discuss2Bus travel considered and mentioned in advertising but without any real detailThere may have been some contact with local bus providers, ITA and/or local Highway Authority regarding local bus services but this has not been consistently followed up or progressed3Bus travel considered and mentioned in advertising with some detailMaking real attempts to explore options for improving services and accessibility by bus but realise there is some way to goThere is reasonable contact with local bus providers, ITA or local Highway Authority regarding local bus services which has seen some progressLack or infrequency of local bus service is acknowledged and seen as a challenge but yet to make serious progress on dealing with this4There are a good number of visitors who come to the site by bus and these have been encouraged by good advertising onsite and in the mediaPartnership with local bus providers, and/or local Highway Authority has delivered improved serviceThere is a combined bus/entry ticketAnd/orConcrete discussions with local bus providers, ITA and/or local Highway Authority have established that there is currently no opportunity to improve or establish effective bus access to the site, however, contact with these bodies is still in place should the situation change or alternatives develop There may be discounts offered for visitors by bus5As previous (4) and:The site operates a shuttle service to local bus hub/hubsThe site is widely acknowledged as delivering best practice for bus visitorsThere will be discounts offered for visitors by busSection 7. Rail transportSome sites will be close to rail stations and others may be close enough to link to these through bus services and/or by cycling. Combined transport options should be explored as these will facilitate a wider range of potential visitors.Shuttle bus / taxi shuttleIt may be feasible to provide a shuttle bus service to and from a local rail station, particularly in peak season or by arrangement. Working with a local taxi or private hire company could be the way to establish a fixed charge service to and from the site (and get word of mouth advertising). In all instances working with station operators to advertise options and routes to your site and corresponding advertising at the site will be invaluable in promoting visits by rail. Cycle hire at stationsAs mentioned in Section 5, cycle hire is also available at some stations (the Bike and Go scheme or Brompton Hire are examples). However, in some cases these may be poorly advertised and need a bit of ingenuity to work out how to access them. Your interest may be the spark to improve what is offered and make it properly viable. Web and onsite advertisingWhere rail is an option this should be advertised in printed materials, the website and onsite information boards. The information should include timetables so that visitors can explore options. As stated in previous sections some car borne visitors may wish to return using a rail or combined option in future. Good onsite advertising of such options will let them know that this is bined ticketing optionsAs with bus services, it may be possible to arrange deals with train operators providing all-in tickets that cover visitors’ travel and entry to the site. Once you start talking to other bodies you may be surprised at the options that develop. Arrangements with local taxi or private hire companies could be included or negotiated to link stations with your site. Industrial espionage.Take a look at the websites of some of your neighboring tourist attractions to see what offers and connections that they have for visitors. Follow up to see if you can join in the scheme or offer something similar.16510394970The nearest station to Burton Constable may be 10 miles away at Hull, but an excellent cycle route to the site from the station and a cycle hub at the station offering standard and electric bicycle hire make this a great location for a day’s adventure.The Cycle Hub at Hull station00The nearest station to Burton Constable may be 10 miles away at Hull, but an excellent cycle route to the site from the station and a cycle hub at the station offering standard and electric bicycle hire make this a great location for a day’s adventure.The Cycle Hub at Hull stationCase Study – Burton Constable, East YorkshireDiscounts for rail travellersAs with all other green modes, discounts on entry and café deals can be offered to visitors who have come by rail.Useful links: Your local Integrated Transport Authority (ITA), where there is one, will be a first port of call as they can advise on other rail contacts and opportunitiesThe local council travel planning section should also be able to advise on local rail contacts and opportunities, particularly in most of the country where there is no local ITA Local station operators – you will be able to discover who operates your local stations by searching for the station name on the ‘Plus Bike’ pages of the National Rail website. This will also provide details on existing facilities at the station, such as cycle hire. Local train operating companies can be approached to discuss combined travel and visitor deals. Examples of recently funded cycle-rail projects are listed at the link below, these are only schemes funded via the train operators, other schemes have been funded by the Local Sustainable Transport Fund to highway authorities. Rail transport ranking matrixRankingDescription of attributes0Team have not really considered if travel to the site is feasible by train1Rail travel to the site has been considered but little done to encourage this by means of advertising Distance to nearest station (over two miles), lack of or infrequency of local service considered to rule out rail travel as a viable option but no attempt made to contact local rail providers, Integrated Transport Authority (ITA) and/or Highway Authority to discussNo consideration of combined rail and walk, cycle or bus as an option for visitors2Rail travel considered and location of nearest stations mentioned in advertising but without any real detail or with advice to catch a taxi from themThere may have been some contact with local rail providers, ITA and/or local Highway Authority regarding links to and opportunity for use of local rail services, but this has not been consistently followed up or progressed3Rail travel considered and mentioned in advertising with some detailMaking real attempts to explore options for improving services and accessibility by rail, but realise there is some way to goThere is understanding of scope for visits by combined modes e.g. rail and walk, cycle or bus and while this may be mentioned in publicity there is need for much better detailThere is reasonable contact with local rail providers, ITA or local Highway Authority regarding local rail services and how to link the site to them, which has seen some genuine progressDistance to local station (over seven miles) and/or infrequency of local rail service is acknowledged and seen as a challenge but yet to make serious progress on dealing with this4There are a good number of visitors who come to the site via local rail services and these have been encouraged by good advertising onsite and in the media and links via other sustainable travel modesPartnership with local bus providers, ITA and/or local Highway Authority, NGOs has delivered good links to local rail services by walking cycling and busAnd/orBike and rail initiatives are in placeAnd/orConcrete discussions with local bus providers, ITA and/or local council established that there is currently no opportunity to improve or introduce effective bus access to the nearest railway stations, however, contact with these bodies is still in place should the situation change or alternatives develop There may be discounts offered for visitors by rail5As previous (4) andThe site operates a shuttle service to local rail hub/hubsThe site is widely acknowledged as delivering best practice for rail visitorsThere will be discounts offered for visitors by railSection 8. Visitors arriving by carContrary to what one might think, car travel can still be reasonably environmentally friendly if approached in the right way. In promoting green travel we are trying to encourage people to make the greenest travel choices available to them. For some visitors and sites there will be no alternative to driving and we do not want to make them feel embarrassed about this. We just wish to encourage them to think about alternatives where these are available.Car share clubsHaving said this, car share clubs, hybrid and electric vehicles are becoming ever more common and offer a half-way house to greener transport. Car clubs now exist in most UK cities as well as many smaller towns. These provide the opportunity to club members to hire a vehicle for as little as one hour. They must return it to a designated parking space which is usually the one they took it from. A smart card and PIN gives them access to the car with the keys securely stored inside. Car and lift share can be an option for special events such as park runs or charity walks, runs and bike rides.Often non-car owners will hire a car club car for all or part of a holiday. Distance from the nearest car club site is not therefore a barrier to your site taking advantage of what car clubs can offer.Discount deals and mutual advertisingThere is scope to negotiate a deal with car clubs and a consortium of Capability Brown sites. These could offer mutual advertising. Clubs want their vehicles used. Most private vehicles spend the vast majority of their time parked, which is very inefficient in terms of use and space taken. In principle car clubs would reduce the clutter of parked cars if everyone used them. Electric and hybrid vehiclesElectric and hybrid vehicle technology is rapidly improving the options for these vehicles which are less polluting and generally recognised as more environmentally friendly. Encouraging their use is something that Capability Brown sites can do with a minimal investment. Grants are available for some new charging points.Carbon offsettingIntroducing carbon offsetting can be good for your site’s PR as well as for the planet. You could offer to plant a tree or trees each year to compensate for your car-borne visitors, advertise this on your website. You could also encourage your visitors to do their own carbon offsetting. Info at: study: example of electric carsUseful links: The CarPlus website will tell you where car clubs operate in the UK. You will find it at .uk/ To find out more about existing charging points for electric vehicles visit knowledge-hub/charging-points.htmlFor government grants to install new charging points visit .uk/government/collections/plug-in-vehicle-chargepoint-grantsFor car/lift share there are plenty of options to explore. Simply search the internet for “Car share” or “Lift share” to find rmation about carbon offsetting can be found at transport ranking matrixRankingDescription of attributes0“Car Club? What’s that?”1We’ve heard about car share clubs but haven’t explored it further than that2We have contacted a local car share club but as yet have not progressed beyond this3Are putting together package with Car Clubs to advertise special deals with our sitePrivileged car parking spaces at our car park will soon be available for car club cars and/orWe are introducing a charging point for electric/hybrid vehicles in the car park 4Our car club package is in place There are now reserved spaces in our car park for car club carsWe will soon have an electric/hybrid vehicle charging point in our car park 5As previous except the charging point is in place, well signposted and often in useOur website and other site publicity advertise our welcome for car clubs and greener vehiclesSection 9. PartnersThroughout the previous sections we have mentioned numerous partners. Most of these will have a real motivation to work with you, offering help and advice as they have a mutual interest in your success. We would also advise you to work with your parent or membership bodies (if this is applicable) as some of the partnership suggestions in this toolkit would work more effectively through a consortium of sites e.g. arrangements with car clubs. Other Capability Brown sites can also help in sharing their experiences. Our case study sites may be a good place to start.Talk to your neighboursWhile some sites may be remote, others will neighbour or be close to other attractions offering opportunities for joint marketing, promotions and ticketing. As partners they will also increase your bargaining power with other external bodies and agencies. Economies of scale can offer much more for the same individual budget when two or more become one. You could consider making joint grant bids to enhance this possibility. Joining existing networks of partnersThe links throughout this toolkit give you a place to start looking for potential partners. Most of these will already be in networks of formal and informal partnerships which it may be advantageous for you to join. They may be able to give you access to resources of time and funding. You won’t know how they might help until you start to look and communicate with them. You may already be involved in partnerships that don’t cover travel and transport but at which the issue could be introduced. Taxi and private hire firm partnersTaxi and private hire firms have been mentioned above in a number of the sections. A really good way to attract partners and promote word of mouth advertising is to invite local taxi / private hire drivers to visit your site with their families free of charge and show them how great your site is with tea and a tour. Fostering good relations is great way to negotiate reasonable fixed fare rates from nearby homes and public transport hubs, and to get recommendations for a visit to your site. Most local authorities will have something like a Taxi Liaison Group through which taxi regulation is managed. This will be looked after by a member of council staff and have representatives from taxi companies involved alongside council staff and councillors. Ask them to help you issue the invite to the taxi drivers.How do your staff and volunteers get to the site?Last but most certainly not least, how do the people who work and volunteer at your site get there? It is well worth asking staff and volunteers how they get to your site, if they have any recommendations for any existing sustainable methods of transport in the area or suggestions for improvement based on their expert local knowledge. This will also help engage them in thinking differently about transport and access and seeing the site from a visitor’s perspective, particularly when you start to make any changes. Ask people to test different routes on their way to and from work and feed back their thoughts and suggestions.Partners ranking matrixRankingDescription of attributes0“Never thought about partners!”1Acknowledge the value of working with partners (ITAs, public transport providers, Local Authority, cycle and walking groups, NGOs) but have not developed any partnerships that deal with travel2Have some external partners with whom travel issues have been discussed. There may be plans to implement sustainable travel initiatives but these have not been implemented yet3Are in discussion with a range of partners and potential partners about how to encourage more visitors to use sustainable transport modes. Some of these initiatives will be in place, although there is considerable scope for more partnership work Developing a sustainable (green travel) strategy which includes partnership working, although this is at best only at draft stage4Work well with a range of partners to deliver green travel initiatives based on an existing green travel strategy, however, this is ready review and updating Always seeking new partners5Very proactive in seeking and working with partners. There is a member or members of staff with specific responsibility for partnership development and liaison. This is as part of the green travel strategy which is regularly reviewed and updatedAcknowledged as an example of best practice in working with partners on green travel initiativesSection 10. Green travel strategy and staff and volunteer trainingTo make the best of the opportunities you have available to you will require a green travel strategy. You may already have a travel plan which covers some of the issues included in this toolkit. Effective travel plans include a strategy for how they should be delivered. This should be reviewed and updated regularly. If you do have one we suggest you review it using this toolkit and particularly the matrices in each section.Starting from scratchIf you are starting from scratch you need to include the following:An introduction setting out the reasons for the strategySections for different green modesAnalysis of where you are now (use the matrices as a guide) in each sectionAn outline of where you intend to get to, when and how, also in each sectionA clear plan on how you will collect data on how visitors access the site and realistic time based targets for increasing green modes. You should start with a base survey and include the results in your strategy. You will then be able to measure progress against thisA process for staff and volunteer training and regular feedback on green travel issues. You may wish to nominate a particular an enthusiastic and engaged member of staff to have responsibility for coordinating the green travel strategyAn annual review of the strategy to measure progress and set new targets and goalsWhere to get helpYou should be able to get help from your local council to develop your strategy. They will have expertise in green travel planning and may have a dedicated travel plan officer who can provide templates and examples of effective travel plans for you to follow. Sustrans also has travel plan expertise and may be able to help. The ACT-Travelwise organisation also has details on its website.Taking on new staff is expensive but there are alternatives that can provide extra resource and expertise at little or no cost. Many sites will have volunteers already. We have suggested in this toolkit where some new volunteers might be found who would be willing and able to help with green transport. In addition the site could contact universities about student placements of students studying estate management and other relevant courses to undertake pieces of work on your behalf as part of their practical coursework. Young workers, apprentices and volunteers often don’t have access to a car. This can be a barrier to employment for them and an inconvenience to the employer unable to recruit promising candidates. Many of the green travel initiatives described in this toolkit can apply equally to staff and volunteers. Local authorities are sometimes able to offer some assistance with travel to new employees and trainees, either through access to discounted public transport tickets or the loan of a scooter or bicycle. Grants are sometimes available to improve infrastructure to support sustainable travel to work.Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) BidsThe HLF welcomes bids for audience development funding. These could be the answer to implementing many of the issues described in this toolkit, from new brown signing to cycle parking onsite. One key requirement for successful bids is that they explain how development will be environmentally sustainable. Having a good green travel strategy will fulfil this condition admirably. The resource needed to prepare bids may be helped through partners or independent advisors. Contact your regional HLF office for an initial discussion .uk/looking-funding/where-we-fundStaff and volunteer trainingStaff and volunteer training will be an essential part in delivering an effective green transport strategy. No matter how small your team, it is good practice to have regular team meetings where you can share information and cascade training lessons. Your green travel strategy should be an agenda item. If you have a nominated green travel coordinator it is important that they share knowledge. When visitors ask for help on green travel issues it is best if all members of staff and volunteers have knowledge to hand rather than always having to point them to someone else, who may not be available or is too busy with other work.Your partners and the travel plan officer should be able to suggest relevant training that would benefit staff. Useful links: Both Transport Initiatives and Phil Jones Associates who have prepared this toolkit can offer more advice on strategy. They can be contacted by email at: info@transport- or birmingham@philjonesassociates.co.uk (main office)Your local council transport planning section which should be the home for travel planning staff and adviceSustrans can assist with strategy development but they may charge for this service. There should be a Sustrans office relatively near to you. Check out .uk/our-services/what-we-do/strategy-and-vision-development ACT Travelwise promotes and facilitates sustainable travel choices, Act TravelWise members benefit from a range of services designed to support them in their sustainable transport and mobility projects. Green travel strategy and staff and volunteers training ranking matrixRankingDescription of attributes0There are no strategies for anythingThere are no regular team meetings for staff and/or volunteersThere is no culture of staff or volunteer training for any issue1You realise there is a need for a travel strategy but haven’t started any work on itThere are occasional team meetings for staff and/or volunteers but no formal programme of meetingsStaff and volunteer training may happen occasionally, but only at the instigation of individual members of staff or volunteers 2A member of staff or small project group has been given responsibility for developing a green travel strategy, but their work is only just started There are regular team meetings for staff and/or volunteers, but these will only feature travel issues reactivelyStaff and volunteer do receive training but this will tend to be on basic matters to comply with health and safety or similar e.g. first aid training3There will be an early draft of the developing green travel strategy available for discussionSustainable travel has been discussed during the regular team meetings. These include specific discussion of the green travel strategy that is being developedTraining on green transport issues is planned for named staff4The green travel strategy has been introduced and is an agenda item at the regular team meetingsNamed staff and/or volunteers have received training on green travel issues and there is more planned. This will be cascaded in future team meetings5As previous (4) and:The green travel strategy and its implementation are recognised as an example of best practice There is a staff member or volunteer with specific responsibility for coordination and delivery of the green travel strategy who reports at every team meeting and plans staff and/or volunteer training on relevant issues related to thisSection 11. Full site assessment matrix recording sheetAt the end of each section from section 2 onwards above you will have seen a ranking matrix describing the attributes of sites ranked on a scale of 0 to 5. To help you see where you are now and plan for the future, you can work out your ranking for each section and then your overall ranking which is an average of the nine rankings you have given yourself. Please be honest. This is not a competition, just a way to help you see where you are and what you can do next. You don’t have to share your finding publicly. Once you have worked out your ranking for each section you can then look at the attributes for rankings higher than yours and decide which of these you could achieve quickly, those you could achieve over a longer timescale and the ones that are just not possible at all. Your findings can form the basis for a new or revised green travel strategy including an action plan with short and long term targets, setting out how you plan to achieve these.A lower ranking now, honestly assessed, will provide more scope to show progress in your annual green strategy review. This page is editableToolkit sectionYour ranking2Website3Onsite information4Cycling5Walking6Bus transport7Rail Transport8Car borne visitors9Partnerships10Green travel strategy and staff and volunteer trainingTotal (out of 45) Overall ranking (Total/9)Section 12. The model green transport friendly siteIn any journey it is very important that we know where we are trying to get to. In describing what a model site would look like we hope to raise aspirations. Even if the model destination seems a long way off, the next steps towards it can always be made. This toolkit will tell you what those steps are. However, this section describes where we might be going.It’s a matter of attitudeThe staff and volunteers at our model site will never believe they have achieved perfect green transport provision. They will be proud of what they are doing and happy to share what they have learnt. They will want to learn from others and be open to new ideas and ready to change what they are doing if it will make things better. They will try to do the best they can, admitting mistakes and learning from them. Progress and strategy will be discussed at regular staff and volunteer team meetings which include green transport as a fixed agenda item.PartnershipsThe model site will be willing to work with partners e.g. neighbouring sites and attractions, Local Authorities, bus and train companies, local cycle and/or walking groups, Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as the National Parks Authority. They will have existing partnerships that provide mutual benefit and they will be open to new partnerships. Website & social mediaThe website will clearly advertise that the site welcomes green travellers. The home page may advertise discounts for green visitors so that the welcome is upfront. Information on travel to the site will be easy to find. After no more than a couple of easy to find clicks you will reach the right page. You will have to scroll past the green mode information before reaching advice for car-borne visitors. Again the discounts, onsite entry and café/restaurant deals, for green visitors will be prominently displayed. Where there is onsite accommodation available, links to walking, cycling, bus and train routes and local or national path networks will be advertised and, where feasible, may be part of a package deal. The information on green modes will be clear and comprehensive. There will be links to bus and train timetables for the nearest stops/stations where these are within realistic reach of the site. There will be links to printable route maps for walking or cycling to and from bus stops/stations. There will also be links to cycle and walking route maps from local urban centres or which identify nearby long distance routes, where these exist.There will be information on cycle parking at the site, telling where it is and what is offered. All sites will have a social media presence such as Twitter and/or Facebook account with regular posts about what’s on and how to get there by green transport modes. There will be stories and photos of visitors who have cycled, walked or used public transport showing that it is easy and normal. This social media will link to national and international campaigns using #hashtags e.g. #TravelTuesday to raise the profile of the site.Onsite and printed informationInformation boards and printed leaflets will echo the website message that green visitors are particularly welcomed and receive discounts. Site guides will show routes around the site and also where these may link to longer routes (walking and cycling) outside it.CyclingThere will be ample good quality cycle parking on the site, as near as possible to the main ticket office or entrance. This will be constantly overlooked and therefore secure. It may be covered. There will also be scope for overspill parking. There will be discounts for cycling visitors. Where feasible there will be well signed cycle routes within the site. There may be cycle hire available onsite, again where feasible. The site may be a hub for the electric bicycle network or provide parking and charging points.Staff and volunteers will understand the opportunity that cycling offers to link to national and local route networks, bus and train stations. Information on how to access the site may be displayed at these, delivered through partners. There may be regular visits by local cycle clubs as a café stop on club rides.Likely partners: Local cycle clubs, Cycling UK (formerly CTC), Sustrans, local cycle campaign group, British Cycling, Electric bicycle network, local cycle shops/hire providers, Local authority transport planning team, Bus and Train operators.WalkingWhile it is understood that few visitors will walk from home to the site, the walking routes linking to bus stops or railway stations will be well catered for where these are feasible. There may be information displayed at the nearest bus stops/stations advising on the best routes to walk to the site. Likewise onsite information will advise on best routes to bus and train stops. Where long distance or local network paths are nearby, links to these will also be advertised. Paths in and around the site will be well illustrated on display boards and printed materials and the paths will be well maintained and signing will be legible and enable easy navigation. As far as possible steps and steep gradients will be avoided, making paths accessible for people with disabilities as well as others who have problems walking. There will be discounts for walking visitors.Likely partners: Ramblers Association, Living Streets (formerly Pedestrians Association), Local authority transport planning team (should include Rights of Way officer), Bus and Train operators Bus and TrainWhere feasible, there will be well advertised links to local bus and train hubs. These will show walking and cycling routes to the site. Public transport information will include reference to bike hire at nearby stations and ability to carry bikes on trains/coaches/rural buses.There will be links to local public transport partners and the Local Authority to either support or improve current bus and/or train access.There may be a shuttle bus service to the nearest public transport hubs provided by the site in peak periods. Likely partners: Local authority transport planning team, Bus and Train operators Car share clubsWhere there are relatively local car share clubs (many parts of the UK), the site will provide discounted parking for car club vehicles. Dedicated parking spaces for car club cars will advertise that this option exists as well as providing priority parking.Likely partners: Local car clubs, Local authority transport planning teamTransport strategy and staff and volunteer trainingThe site will have a clear and effective green transport strategy (Travel Plan) which will encompass all the aspects described above. This will have defined outcomes, targets for increasing the proportion of green visitors and systems of regular data collection to measure how people travel to the site. An action plan will chart how delivery of all elements will be achieved or implemented and when. Staff and volunteer training will be part of the strategy and will cover any relevant training needs to help implement it.Likely partners: Local authority transport planning team (travel plan officer).ConclusionThank you for taking the time to read through this toolkit. We hope you have found lots of good ideas about how you can broaden your site’s appeal while at the same time doing some good for the planet. We’d love to know how you get on with implementing these ideas. We are always learning and sharing in your experiences will help us. So good luck on your green journey.The team at the Capability Brown Festival 2016. This toolkit has been prepared for the Capability Brown Festival by:Transport Initiatives LLP and Phil Jones Associatestransport- philjonesassociates.co.uk ................
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