Rushden Lakes has received accreditation for its sustainable travel plan, becoming the first retail and leisure destination to receive this recognition.
Modeshift STARS (Sustainable Travel Accredited and Recognized) has awarded Rushden Lakes a bronze for its sustainable travel plan implemented last year.
The plan aims to reduce out-of-town car trips to the Rushden Lakes by seven percent and make active and sustainable travel a “doable” choice for as many visitors as possible.
About five million shoppers visited Rushden Lakes in the first year of trading.
Jo Francis, Property Management Director at The Crown Estate said: “To make our places more sustainable in the future, we need to work with partners to develop resilient travel infrastructure that gives people more options, either on foot, by bike or to drive electric vehicles or easily accessible public transport.
“It’s great to see that the hard work of the Rushden Lakes team has been recognized by Modeshift. We look forward to continuing to work with everyone who uses our spaces to shape our sustainable travel plans for the future.”
Initiatives to promote sustainable travel include free bike repair and maintenance sessions, bike safety training and the provision of AJ Cycles and Decathlon vouchers.
The Crown Estate has also worked with Savills to make improvements at all locations to facilitate and encourage more sustainable modes of transport for everyone traveling to their destinations.
Modeshift STARS is the center of excellence for delivering effective travel plans in the educational, business and community settings. The program recognizes schools, businesses and other organizations that have demonstrated excellence in supporting cycling, hiking and other forms of sustainable and active travel.
A spokesman for Modeshift said: “Here at Modeshift we have seen a record number of accreditation approvals and are very proud that 1,182 sites are currently accredited including 406 workplaces.
“Rushden Lakes is the first shopping center to receive National STARS accreditation and has achieved a good itinerary standard for their hard work and commitment to sustainable and active travel. We look forward to seeing how their travel plan unfolds and what positive changes they can bring to their workforce and the community around them.”