Popularity of Park and Ride continues to grow
More and more people are taking advantage of the benefits of park and ride in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The latest figures for the month of February show that more people travelled on the Park and Ride service than even during the hectic Christmas period.
In February 3,100 passenger journeys were made on the Park and Ride service, making it the most successful month since the scheme began on November 21 last year.
During December 2,965 people used the service, in January it dipped to 2,372, but in February it has leapt to 3,100 using the site at Bishopton – taking advantage of the free parking and low cost travel into the town centre.
Cllr Martin Heatley, Warwickshire County Council’s Cabinet member for Environmental Services, said: “I’m delighted to see more people using the scheme, and this is before we even officially launch the scheme in the summer.
“I would however like to see more of the town’s commuters taking advantage of Park and Ride, it makes sense for the environment, and could save them an awful lot of money.”
The site opened early, despite finishing touches still being made, to allow drivers to enjoy hassle free parking over the Christmas period.
Buses operated by Johnsons of Henley run from the site into the town centre every 10 minutes on each day of the week.
The site is currently operating, but will officially launch in June offering a purpose-built customer services building with waiting room, toilets, vending machines and security office. The site will by this date also have permanent facilities for the disabled.
One of the managing directors of Johnsons of Henley, Peter Johnson added: "It’s early days, but we are encouraged by the amount of people starting to use the facility and by the many favorable comments we are receiving. We already have some regulars.
“As the site develops we are confident more people will appreciate the opportunity to leave their cars in a safe and secure car park and take the bus right into the centre of town for a modest cost."
Details about the Stratford upon Avon Park and Ride are available on the County Council web site at http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/publictransport