Improved Cycle Routes and Bus Routes/Services, More Train Stops!
I was driving to work and back every day before lockdown. Living in Cornwall this meant a 24 miles a day round trip... I’m sure there are people driving much further than me too!!
The lockdown has proved this was never necessary. The majority of people CAN work from home, and personally, I have saved £210 in diesel over the last three months! Collectively we have helped reduce emissions by a significant amount and this MUST continue.
In addition, I have had an extra half an hour in bed and to relax in the evening with my family. Quality of life with regards to family and relaxation has improved and this has improved our relationships and wellbeing.
At work, Skype/Team meetings have enabled us to continue connecting with colleagues. However there is a lot to be said for seeing people in person and this HAS to be encouraged too.
The lockdown has shown that where possible, we SHOULD NOT be driving, and have a better work/home life balance.
My hopes for the FUTURE would be to work four days from home and have a day at the office so I could fulfil the above.
On my day at the office, I would love to get the train or cycle to work. However, I never will as it stands, because there are no cycle routes or close and convenient train stops. The buses are also a nightmare and can’t be trusted. The end stop is a long way from where I work too.
I firstly propose we build new cycle routes that run through fields preferably (in straight lines for the quickest journey, avoiding main roads and steep hills to encourage more cyclists to give up their cars!).
BEAUTIFUL scenic direct cycle routes that take us from our villages into the towns via our wonderful countryside ... surely the farmers would allow this positive and environmentally friendly move forward?!!in addition, this would be FANTASTIC for tourism.
Secondly, I propose we open old and new train stations in our villages, and provide local annual/monthly passes. People may use the trains more to get to work/go shopping in Truro etc, if there was a station within walking distance to get on one! This would not only be more environmentally friendly, but attract more people to shopping centres (tourists too), with the prospect of a train ride through the scenic countryside.
Finally, we must sort the buses out! We need night buses too as currently nobody can enjoy a night out as they can’t get home to their village after without a huge taxi price to pay.
I believe the above would support efforts to reduce climate change, boost our economy, AND improve our community’s wellbeing 😊