A transport and access vision.

BUILDINGS for Business has appointed The Workplace Travel Plan Company as the Team Valley's first travel plan co-ordinator to work with Buildings for Business's new recruit, David Gibbs.

Peter Wignall, managing director of The Workplace Travel Plan Company said: "We are delighted to have been chosen to act as the Team Valley's first travel plan co-ordinator. The initiative is about the long term development of the more sustainable forms of travel. It's a grand challenge, but local for us so we know the players and community. Similarly, the company is involved with similar schemes in different parts of the country, from where we will seek to bring home best practice."

Michael Spriggs, chief executive of Buildings for Business said: "We are pleased to announce the appointment of WTPCo. One of the first aspects of the appointment will be to draw together a project steering group from the key strategic partners of the North East Property Partnership (Buildings for Business), Gateshead Council and the Highways Agency. This work has already begun and a formal announcement will be made in due course."

Similarly, there are many organisations with the capacity to support delivery on the ground. Again contact has already been made and the operational group will have its first meeting early in the new year. Typically this group will involve transport operators, smarter travel groups, business groups and public sector partners.

Both steering and operational groups will be a conduit to funding and opportunities, which will be complemented by taking advantage of sponsorship and advertising opportunities and in kind support.

The work is hoped to create a sense of pride and community with which all those who work and visit the Valley will wish to engage. The shout from the roof tops will chiefly be via www.teamvalleylinks.com. This website will be enhanced and expanded in the future. You can also expect to see this supported by other advertising around Team Valley, such as Buildings for Business site boards and directory signage.

There will be on the ground practical support with travel planning for employers and employees and those who visit. The dedicated staff of WTPCo of Diane Ward, Patricia McDermott and David Gibbs form the team to assist business in their travel plan needs.

A physical travel centre will complement the virtual support given. This will start in Maingate, but move to a more central and prominent position as premises opportunities and funding permits.

Peter Wignall added: "We don't underestimate the task. Team Valley employs over 21,000 people full and part time, with a significant population of shoppers and students.

"The appointment reflects a change in society, as by necessity we all become more environmentally aware. Whilst some aspects of sustainability have become mainstream, travel is one where there is massive scope to improve. " For more information visit www.teamvalleylinks.com.

CAPTION(S):

CHALLENGE Left to right, David Gibbs, of Buildings for Business, Peter Wignall, managing director of WTPCo, Michael Spriggs, chief executive, and Gary Hudson, development Director, Buildings for Business.