Hull hotel receives national certificate for encouraging walking, cycling and public transport

The hotel has progressed from an ‘Approved Travel Plan’ to a ‘Good Travel Plan’ award after delivering a range of initiatives over the past 12 months to reduce car usage among staff and increase the number of journeys made using more active and sustainable travel modes.

The national Modeshift STARS accreditation scheme recognises workplaces that go above and beyond in developing, implementing and monitoring an effective travel plan to bring about a change in travel behaviour and reduce the number of single occupancy car journeys to, from and between their sites.

Sites are awarded Approved, Good, Very Good, Excellent and Outstanding accreditation.

Hull City Council offers businesses and organisations within the city the chance to join Modeshift STARS for free as part of its strategic objective of promoting active travel choices.

The benefits and advantages of a workplace travel plan, include:

• reductions of single occupancy car journeys, which helps alleviate pressure and congestion across site car parks
• identifying availability and accessibility of viable transport options, based on staff locations
• potential to improve and develop site connectivity links through sustainable and active travel
• improving staff wellbeing, with physical and mental health benefits.

Samantha Dunion, general manager at Doubletree by Hilton Hull, said: “Were thrilled to have received the 'Good Travel Plan' award. Our team has shown great commitment to enhancing their commute and has embraced new, sustainable travel options in line with our travel with purpose policy, which promotes responsible and eco-friendly travel.”

Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transportation, roads and highways at Hull City Council, said: “It is fantastic to see the swift progress made by the team at Doubletree by Hilton in promoting active and sustainable travel options. By encouraging walking, cycling and the use of public transport, they are highlighting the numerous benefits for individuals, such as saving on travel costs and improving health and wellbeing, as well as for the wider community, including achieving cleaner air and reducing congestion.”