As we bid farewell to 2024 and welcome the promise of a fresh, new year, it's clear that green travel is on the rise in Essex. The county council's commitment to prioritising Active Travel in 2025 has already seen a significant uptake in sustainable transport schemes throughout the past year, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down.
Active Travel, a project that encourages greener ways of commuting for shorter journeys or as part of longer ones, has been a beacon of success. The initiative has been backed by infrastructure development and training, making it easier for residents to adopt these eco-friendly habits.
In 2024 alone, the council facilitated cycling training for over 6,000 pupils across 256 Essex schools as part of the government’s Bikeability programme. This initiative not only promotes a healthier lifestyle but also instils a sense of environmental responsibility in the younger generation.
Furthermore, the e-scooter trial that started in December 2020 has seen a whopping three million rides in Basildon, Braintree, Chelmsford, and Colchester, replacing 593,508 car trips. This has led to the displacement of an impressive 109 tons of CO2, a significant step towards reducing our carbon footprint.
In addition to these initiatives, 70 electric vehicle charging points have been installed across Essex, and 21 railway events have been organised for over 1,200 passengers. These events, part of the Essex & South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership, included seaside trips from Colchester to Walton-on-the-Naze and a music train to the Harwich Shanty Festival.
Infrastructure improvements have also been made in Braintree, Chelmsford, Colchester, and Harlow, with the installation of cycle paths, signage, signalised crossings, and wider pavements.
Councillor Tom Cunningham, Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Sustainable Transport at Essex County Council, expressed his gratitude to the residents of Essex for embracing Active Travel and the benefits it brings to our environment, health, and economy.
As we look forward to a greener 2025, it's clear that Essex is leading the way in sustainable transport. And remember, if you're considering a move within or to Essex, we at Bond Residential are here to help you find your perfect home in this forward-thinking county.
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