Once again the ACT TravelWise autumn conference and awards was a first-class event celebrating the achievements of transport planners across the UK over the past 12 months.

The 'sold out' conference was held on the 25th November in Nottingham, and focussed on addressing the challenges and opportunities arising from the Local Sustainable Transport Fund. It provided important insights into the current and future plans of local authorities and the wider transport industry, including a showcase of best practice, and projects that have managed to maintain momentum in influencing travel behaviour despite the current funding constraints.

The conference opened with a dynamic Pecha Kucha session showcasing innovative cycling projects across the UK. This lively session kept delegates captivated from start to finish, and was followed by an insightful speech from Norman Baker addressing questions from ACT TravelWise members on the future for sustainable transport in the UK. Insightful presentations from some of the most outstanding local authorities focussed on delivering projects with and without LSTF funding. They provided an exclusive perspective from city and county authorities, highlighting creative ways to engage businesses and organisations in sustainable transport projects. The afternoon session shifted the focus to harnessing alternative funding sources, including opportunities from land and property income and European funding. The day concluded with a celebration of the award winners and shortlisted nominees.

The fabluous awards ceremony and gala lunch honoured those who have excelled within the smarter choices and sustainable travel industry over the last 12 months. The winners included: Lancaster University and Quorum Business Park - 'Communter Friendly Workplace of the Year 2011', Merseytravel - 'Innovation of the year 2011', Heathrow Commuter - ' Marketing campaign for the year award 2011', Dawn Dewar - 'Travel Planner of the Year 2011', Londonderry City Council - 'TravelWise & European Mobility Week Award 2011', Eastern Region - 'Most Improved ACT TravelWise Region of the Year 2011' and Sir Brian Souter, Stagecoach Group co-founder and Chief Executive - 'Outstanding Contribution Award 2011'.

Comments from delegates highlighted that the conference was a great opportunity for: "catching up with travel planners from across the UK"; "sharing ideas and experiences"; and, "getting updates as to what other LA's are doing right and wrong". 93% of delegates rated the conference presentations as either 'very good' or 'good', with 100% of delegates agreeing the event should take place again next year. It was particularly encouraging to note that: "it was topical - addressed the current situation and members' current preoccupations"; and, "the fact it was done in one day and you still managed to get enough time to network and catch up".

If you missed the ACT TravelWise Autumn Conference do not despair, the University of Essex will be hosting the ACT TravelWise Spring Conference on the 30th March 2012! If you would like more information or the opportunity to receive an early bird discount contact:

Stephanie Norris
Transport Consultant
Integrated Transport Planning Ltd.
0115 988 6905
norris@itpworld.net