Health and wellbeing focus set to transform future of transport in Colchester

School pupils have this week helped to launch a blueprint that will help re-shape how we travel in Colchester. 

Now open for people’s views, the Colchester Future Transport Strategy examines how the borough’s residents, employees and visitors currently travel and where transport investment should be made over the coming years.

Jointly supported by Essex County Council and Colchester Borough Council, it will also form the basis for which all future transport schemes are judged against. 

The strategy sets out a bold vision and stark need to focus on health and wellbeing, reduce car use in the town centre, improve air quality and increase sustainable travel, through the creation of four zones in, each with specific priorities. 

Currently, over 60 per cent of people who both live and work within the borough travel by car. Of these journeys, 40 per cent are 5km or less and 20 per cent are 2km or less.

Helping to launch the strategy and an accompanying competition for schools, students from Colchester High School for Girls backed the need to focus on the environment and increase opportunities for walking and cycling in the town.

Mrs Willa Jackson, Associate to the Principal at Colchester County High School for Girls, said that the school is pleased to be supporting the Colchester Future Transport Strategy. “As part of our Eco-school status CCHSG is keen to encourage more students who live in Colchester to walk or cycle to school.

“This would not only benefit their  health and fitness but would also help to reduce traffic congestion in the area local to the school.”

To view the Colchester Future Transport Strategy and have your say, please visit www.essexhighways.org/colchester-future-transport.aspx