In this section
Gareth, Annie and their kids, Sam (6) and Beth's (2) travel story
A young family living in Knutsford.
Currently...
- Annie works at Watford Business Park, while Gareth volunteers as a Youth Worker in Watford town centre, and both drive to work.
- They have two cars to manage childcare needs with commuting.
- Sam attends Beechfield School which is slightly too far to walk to, so Gareth drives him to school before dropping Beth off at nursery. He then does the shopping or goes to the gym before his shift at work.
- The family's doctor has told him that Sam's weight is higher than it should be for his age, and have recommend more daily exercise. His parents think cycling to school would help but they don't feel comfortable with him being on the roads.
- Annie would like to upgrade to an electric car but she worries about finding places to charge it when out and about.
- The family often struggle to find a parking space outside their home despite their being a Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) in place.
Monthly costs:
- CPZ permits (x2) - £6.70
- Car running costs (inc. fuel x2) - £250
- Total: £256.70
In the future...
- Their neighbourhood is much quieter thanks to measures to reduce through traffic.
- The family now feels comfortable making some journeys by cycling, including Sam's journey to school.
- Following a trial loan from the Council, Gareth bought a new cargo bike which he can use for taking Beth to nursery and carrying shopping. He also rides with Sam when he can.
- Gareth sold hid car, and Annie has upgraded hers to a new electric model. She can charge it up at work as new charging points have been installed near her office.
- Finding a parking space near their house is much easier now as they only have one car. There is also more cycling parking in convenient locations across the town, including spaces for cargo bikes, meaning they feel confident whenever they use it.
- Sam's doctor says the cycling is already having a positive impact, on his weight and overall health.
Montly costs:
- CPZ permit - £2.10
- Bike running costs - £5
- Electric car lease (Nissan Leaf) - £200 + £1,800 initial cost
- Electric car running costs (inc. electrcitiy): £70
- Total: £277.10 (+£1,800 initial cost)
