All schools and businesses in Westport are collaborating to encourage everyone to travel to school and work in a sustainable manner. All commuters are requested to consider walking, cycling, car pooling, or taking the bus or train. This is a re-launch to encourage both schools and workplaces to get involved and it is intended to have weekly WWW days from now on. The first commences next Wednesday, February 10.
This initiative is part of Westport’s bid in the Smarter Travel Areas Competition, where Westport is seeking to become a demonstration town for sustainable travel, and An Taisce’s Green Schools Travel programme. Two WWW days took place on November 11 and December 9 last year. Both days were very successful with a reduction in the number of cars and congestion in the town. The re-launch of WWW incorporates both schools and businesses; therefore the potential for success is great. Westport’s new Green Way is now accessible and should be used on the morning and evening commute, if possible.
As part of the Westport event ‘Park ‘n’ Stride’ locations will be in place to encourage and facilitate people who wish to walk or cycle part of the journey to school. Park ‘n’ Stride involves parking the car at a certain location and walking the remainder of the journey to school or work. The designated ‘Park ‘n Stride’ locations will again be signposted.
Park’n’Stride locations are Tesco car park, Ballinrobe Road; Mill Street/High Street car park (top level ); civic offices car park, Ballinrobe Road; Portwest, Castlebar Road; and the car park beside Westport fire station on the Leenane Road.
Remember to keep safe when travelling to school and practice the Safe Cross Code. This initiative will help ease congestion in Westport, promote sustainable modes of transport, reduce CO2 emissions, and increase activity and health levels in adults and children. Participants will also have an opportunity to meet their friends and neighbours. For further information contact Ann Moore, town clerk, 098 50400, [email protected] or Eva Gannon, Green Schools travel education officer, [email protected], 087 247 1840.
