Six in ten of town’s commuters use their car

A study as part of a council campaign to boost healthy lifestyles among an Erewash town’s residents by getting them walking and cycling more found six in ten of its commuters use their cars to get to work – which explains rush-hour jams in Ilkeston.

Just 15 per cent rely on public transport for travelling to their jobs – while 20 per cent either walk or cycle.

Townsfolk are also bucking the trend towards working from home. Nationally the figure is 30 per cent – but in Ilkeston it is five per cent.

The findings come amid a mission by Erewash council to get Ilkeston’s residents fitter by persuading them to spurn cars, especially for shorter journeys.

The authority has partnered with a national charity dedicated to boosting walking, cycling and – for those who are disabled – “wheeling”.

The organisation, called Sustrans, aims to pioneer “sustainable transport” in terms of able-bodied people simply using their own two feet to get out and about.

It launched an online survey to get a picture of how people in Ilkeston travel around. The responses from 249 who took part show:

Of those who already like to walk almost 90 PER CENT do so in and around Ilkeston town centre as a regular part of their week – “reflecting the importance of accessible shopping, facilities and amenities”.

FIFTY-SIX PER CENT use local trails and canal paths. Almost half visit Shipley Park. A third go to Bennerley Viaduct.

LACK OF TIME was the most common reason for not walking more often – with 47 per cent saying they are too busy. The report suggests: “There are aspects of modern life which put time for self-care and healthy leisure in short supply.”
Many said crossing busy main roads was an issue. The state of pavements and inadequate lighting were also cited as a bar to walking more – as were cars parked on kerbs and paths being blocked by overgrown bushes, e-bikes and mobility scooters. The town’s steep hills were also a factor.

Almost four in ten said they own a bicycle – but many never use them. Only 12 per cent went for weekly rides – with local trails and canal paths the most popular routes.

In total 67 per cent of bike owners said they would like to cycle more. But more than half (52 per cent) said a lack of dedicated cycle lanes put them off taking to the saddle. A lack of secure parking for bicycles was also an issue.
The charity says: “The physical geography of Ilkeston town, with its steep hills will always be an obstacle to the casual cyclist or walker, especially if carrying shopping or luggage. In the town centre, specific concerns about anti-social behaviour and the quality or availability of attractive shops and amenities are common, as are fears about bicycle crime.

“In the surrounding areas it is striking how the local network of canal paths, trails and local features is so highly valued.”

The survey will form the basis of discussions with local community groups, workplaces and other stakeholders for what is called an “active travel modal shift” project. Cllr Josy Hare, who is the council’s Lead Member for Health and Wellbeing, said:

“It is all too easy to hop in the car even for short trips such as nipping to the local shop – but we urge residents to think twice and consider the benefits of getting some simple exercise by just walking.”