Findings to be revealed at a national transport conference today (Weds 16 June) show motorists in the West Midlands have more choice of park and ride than in any other major urban area. (See footnote)

Public transport promoter Centro now provides more than 5,400 free spaces at rail and Metro stations – which are reckoned to take two million car journeys a year off the region’s congested roads.

The figures are being presented at a conference in London today where transport experts will study the West Midlands success story.  Other big cities like Liverpool and Manchester have thousands fewer places available.

Centro rail boss Peter Sargant will explain how secure car parking, with CCTV linked to a regional control centre, has helped make park and ride immensely popular among local passengers.  One sixth of Birmingham commuters now make their daily journey by train and the majority (72%) have been tempted away from using their car.

“Quality park and ride is an important part of the mix to provide a better service for passengers and make public transport more attractive.  By helping to tackle congestion, Centro can also provide a boost to the local economy,” he says.

Three Midland Metro stations also have well-used park and ride facilities and a new bus-based jam busting scheme is about to be launched by Centro, Birmingham City Council and Star City.  The alternative to the congested Aston Expressway will provide free secure parking and buses every ten minutes direct to Birmingham City Centre.