For the 9.5
million people living in rural England, it is rare to hear a
positive story about public transport in their area. The decline
in rural bus services, combined with the closure of local services
has lead to increased isolation for rural residents. For 1in 5
living in rural England there is little choice but to own a car,
even for those on lower incomes, car ownership becomes a high priority.
Today, the Commission for Rural Communities (CRC), in conjunction
with Lincolnshire County Council, is launching a short film
demonstrating how transport schemes can be integrated and
sustainable in rural areas. This film is the result of a visit to
rural Lincolnshire in February 2009, by Dr. Stuart Burgess
Chairman of the CRC and the Government’s Rural Advocate.
The schemes which Lincolnshire County Council has in place, and
which are showcased in the film are: InterConnect, an interurban
public bus service supported by a demand responsive transport
scheme known as CallConnect, a community rail partnership marketed
as ’The Poacher Line’, and supporting these initiatives is
widespread provision of self sustaining voluntary car schemes and
dial a ride and community transport.
The CRC is calling for other local authorities to consider how
these schemes could be mirrored in their locality, similar to the
recent creation of another CallConnect route in rural
Northamptonshire.
CallConnect is available for everyone, and 10-15% of its users
are daily commuters. The service is able to pick up and drop off
those who are less mobile or live in a remote area from their
front door. Using the latest technology, Lincolnshire County
Council is able to plan journeys and load vehicles efficiently, as
well as tracking the vehicles’ movements around the county.
The Poacher Line is a valuable asset to the local community,
providing easier access to the coast and a unique community
engagement tool. During the quieter months of the year, the
partnership arranges various outings for families, and community
events, such as live bands playing on the train.
Sarah McAdam, Chief Executive of the CRC says: “Accessibility and
transport are two of the most challenging issues facing rural
communities. The CRC believes that the provision of efficient and
effective integrated transport systems, such as in Lincolnshire,
can make a significant difference to those who live and work in
rural England. The availability of good transport enhances access
to job opportunities, education, health services and boosts the
wellbeing of communities. We are pleased to have the opportunity
to endorse this example of good practice in the provision of rural
transport and would encourage other local authorities to develop
their own models.”
Cllr William Webb, Lincolnshire County Council's
Executive Member for Transport & Highways, said:
"The County Council is pleased to receive this
affirmation of its investment in public transport. We are proud of
our achievements and will continue striving to improve transport
in Lincolnshire. The comments made by the CRC are welcomed and we
agree that we have developed innovative schemes that are examples
of best practice."
ENDS
For further information contact Chris Wynne-Davies.
CRC 26/09
Notes for editors:
1 The film ‘Transport in Rural Communities Good Practice’ can be
viewed at:
www.ruralcommunities.gov.uk/publications/crctransportinruralareasgood
2 We are also issuing a Social Media News Release, which can be
viewed at:
http://pressitt.com/smnr/integrated-rural-transport-showcased/488/
3 The report of the Rural Advocate’s visit to rural Lincolnshire
on 24 and 25 February 2009 to learn from transport schemes
tackling rural isolation can be found at:
www.ruralcommunities.gov.uk/files/ra%20lincs%20transport%20visit%20summary.pdf
4 The CRC was established in April 2005 and became an independent
body on 1 October 2006, following the enactment of the Natural
Environment and Rural Communities Act, 2006. The role of the CRC
is to provide well-informed, independent advice to Government and
ensure that policies reflect the real needs and circumstances of
people living and working in rural England. We give particular
focus to tackling disadvantage and economic under-performance.
We have three key functions:
* advocate: the voice for rural
people, business and communities;
* expert adviser: providing
evidence-based, objective advice to Government and others;
and
* independent watchdog: monitoring and reporting on the
delivery of policies nationally, regionally and locally.
Further information about the CRC and its work can be found at:
www.ruralcommunities.gov.uk
Contacts:
NDS Enquiries
Phone: For enquiries please contact the above department
ndsenquiries@coi.gsi.gov.uk
Chris Wynne-Davies
Phone: 01242 534070
chris.wynne-davies@ruralcommunities.gov.uk