Preston bids for European travel funding

Transport planners say support is growing for a near-£5m scheme to make the area a haven for safe and tranquil travel.

Environmentally friendly diesel-electric buses, extra pedestrianisation, buses running on flexible routes, and even loan cars available by the hour, are all included in a Lancashire County Council-led European funding bid to be considered in the spring.

"We want to see transport in the Preston area move into the 21st century," said councillor Jean Yates, Lancashire County Council's cabinet member for highways and transportation. "A clean and safe environment will need transport that is flexible and in tune with people's needs.

"There is much competition from other European cities for this funding, but we have the support in place to make a big impact. Commissioners will look at all the bids in the spring and the winners should be able to start work by late-2004," councillor Yates added.

Preston Bus, a partner in the bid, hopes to buy diesel/electric buses if the bid is successful. The diesel engines will power the buses until the batteries are charged in a step that will reduce air pollution.

Car clubs are also included in the scheme, with small cars available for hire from neighbourhood compounds for trips such as shopping and family visits. Demand-responsive buses will also travel small distances off their normal routes to encourage people to leave the car at home.

For further information contact Neil Graham on 01772 531095 or neil.graham@css.lancscc.gov.uk.