Exceptional levels of sustainable travel amongst the Eddington community are being achieved

Eddington emerges as a shining beacon of sustainability with exceptionally high levels of cycling, walking and using public transport to travel to work in the latest travel survey data undertaken by the University of Cambridge’s Environmental Sustainability team. The survey, conducted across the community at Eddington, has demonstrated an overwhelming commitment to eco-friendly modes of transportation among residents of our forward-thinking community.

A staggering 89% of Eddington’s residents opt for sustainable modes of transport when commuting to work. Whether it’s cycling, walking, scooting or using the Universal bus, the Eddington residents are significantly reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to a cleaner environment.

Unsurprisingly, cycling was the dominant method of sustainable travel with 45% of respondents cycling to work. To help residents to choose cycling as a first choice the University offers a full range of cycling initiatives to encourage active travel, including a Cycle Loan scheme and tailored cycle training, as well as regular free Dr Bike maintenance checks.

Mike Davies, Transport Team Manager at the University of Cambridge commented: “I would like to thank all of the members of the Eddington community that participated in the annual travel survey. The results are remarkable. The survey gives us some really useful information and helps us to improve and tailor our transport initiatives to have maximum impact. I hope that the community will continue to embrace active travel and public transport to maintain a healthy and vibrant neighbourhood.”

Furthermore, the survey highlights the commendable efforts of students at the University of Cambridge Primary School in embracing sustainable transportation habits. 76% of students choose eco-friendly options to travel to school, reflecting a culture of environmental consciousness ingrained within the younger generation of Eddington and the wider community.

Even in the realm of everyday errands and shopping, sustainability remains a top priority for the local community. 65% of shoppers opt for sustainable modes of transport when making their way to Sainsbury’s in Eddington. The location and early delivery of an adequately sized supermarket in Eddington has helped to create positive travel behaviours, as well as supporting the local community where there is an under-provision of foodstores. Data from TRICS* rates the Sainsbury’s at Eddington as one of the most sustainable stores in the country for travel, based on the store size.

A low car environment is prioritised by the University as an important lifestyle choice in helping residents living in University key worker housing. Many residents come from different parts of the country and overseas which means that bringing a car to live in Cambridge isn’t a first choice. Eddington promotes active travel and low car ownership amongst its population which helps the local road network and the planet.

Matt Johnson, Head of Development for North West Cambridge at the University of Cambridge commented: “The travel survey highlights the tangible results of our vision, showcasing Eddington as a benchmark for sustainable development both locally and globally. By championing active travel and public transport, we not only mitigate environmental impacts but also cultivate a vibrant, healthier neighbourhood for our residents.

“Eddington stands as a testament to our ambition and innovation, a pioneering venture in sustainable living within a thoughtfully designed and well connected part of Cambridge. Together, we are redefining urban living, empowering individuals to embrace a low-carbon lifestyle and fostering a community where quality of life thrives.”

With a progressive approach to transportation and sustainability, Eddington serves as a model for communities striving to build a greener and more sustainable future.

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Data taken from the University of Cambridge’s Eddington Annual Travel Survey in 2023, and released in 2024. 254 respondents were surveyed in October 2023 to form the findings of this report which was submitted to Cambridgeshire County Council published by the local authorities as part of the requirement to monitor the development travel plan.

TRICS is the national system of trip generation analysis, a large database of inbound & outbound transport surveys covering a wide variety of development types.