Travelling Light

Focus of work

Travelling Light, a project of Hope Valley Climate Action (HCVA), aims to bring about transformative and sustainable change in how local people and visitors travel in and to the Hope Valley. Its vision is for the Hope Valley to be a great place to live, work and visit thanks to an integrated system of high-quality public transport linked to excellent walking and cycling routes, as well as shared electric cars and bikes. This will result in safer, quieter roads, healthier residents and visitors, and a flourishing natural environment as low-emission and active travel options become the norm.

The project works closely with local communities, supports and empowers active travel and transport groups, and builds strong partnerships with organisations who share its vision. By bringing residents, volunteers, transport providers and regional partners together, HVCA aim to create practical, lasting change that benefits everyone.

Impact

Key achievements as part of the Travelling Light project include:

• Engaged pupils and staff in ‘walk to school’ projects in eight Hope Valley primary schools
• Ran ‘try an e-bike’ events in five villages – 80% of people said they would now be likely to purchase an e-bike
• Contributed to a ‘Cycling for All’ rally with 60 attendees, including the local MP
• Promoted the concept of ‘mobility hubs’ based on Hope Valley stations – Hope station has now been identified as a priority hub
• Developed a 20mph speed limit campaign framework for the area
• Ran the ‘Use the Bus’ campaign, in partnership with bus operators and Derbyshire County Council – attracting constructive feedback from over 50 people on areas for improvement
• Campaigned successfully with others for the local rail service to call at every station, every hour – the Northern Rail timetable from December 2022 includes this level of service for the first time
• Pressed local authorities and community organisations for faster roll-out of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points, including working with local businesses to identify possible locations
• Worked with Derbyshire County Council on a successful bid to Midlands Connect for funds to develop and promote a new platform for sharing lifts, vehicles and EV charging points, with the Hope Valley as a pilot area
• Engaged with stakeholders including Marketing Derbyshire (Tourist Board), Environment Quality Mark, and local tourist and accommodation providers about how to promote sustainable travel solutions (such as discounted entry tickets for arriving by public transport).