Options Appraisal for a Sustainable Transport Service

Case Studies > Options Appraisal for a Sustainable Transport Service

Inner Forth Futures (IFF) is a partnership of local authorities, public bodies and charities.

The partnership was formed with the goal of making the Inner Forth a better place to live, work and visit through the promotion of the area’s natural and cultural heritage, and sustainable transport options. In support of its efforts, IFF commissioned Ansons to conduct a feasibility study for the introduction of a Green Heritage Transport Service (GHTS).

The GHTS would aim to divert Inner Forth visitors from their cars in favour of exploring the area on foot and by wheel. In doing so, it would support local action towards net zero, and promote the Inner Forth as a slow travel destination. At the outset, it was considered that this could be done by promoting existing rail and bus links, in addition to potential new transport and services, and infrastructure.

During the feasibility study, we conducted research to better understand the local context and learn from similar interventions in other places. We also engaged stakeholders and local communities through interviews and an online survey. This was followed by an options appraisal to identify the most feasible type of intervention. The study concluded with a summary of the preferred GHTS option: a local bus service, with an outline of potential operating regimes, vehicle types, routes and timetables, and recommendations on driver licensing and fares.

Should you be interested in finding out more about this commission, Inner Forth Futures have published the Green Heritage Transport Service Feasibility report on their website.