Memorandum from David Bailey

 

 

I am currently quite disappointed with the standard of alternative transport to the private car within my locality.

 

There is only one local an hour serving Dawlish and Teignmouth. There should be at least two.

 

Although First Great Western operate a Devon and Cornwall Railcard, which costs £10 per annum and gives the traveller a third reduction on off peak fares, FGW are not promoting this offer which is not encouraging sustainable transport. In addition to a third reduction, the railcard also offers a third off for an accompanying adult (who may not be in possession of a railcard) and a £1 fare for accompanying children.

 

In addition to the railcard, FGW have also reduced their fares within Devon and Cornwall. Once again, the local population are largely unaware of this which is unacceptable.

 

Despite the local fare attractions, travel over the Devon border into Somerset involves a hike in fares. This is a matter which needs to be addressed. (A 'saver' return to London from Exeter costs in the region of £60. This is discouraging.)

 

Currently there are a few daily services from Waterloo going beyond Exeter to Paignton and Plymouth. However this service will discontinue as from December this year, all services terminating at Exeter St Davids. This is a poor decision in the interests of sustainable transport.

 

Local bus services are very expensive.

 

Finally, Devon County Council has diverted all of the funds allocated from DfT to improve local transport, towards the South Devon Link Road. This is a disgraceful decision that would severely damage the environmental quality and tranquillity of the village of Kingskerswell and violate action to combat climate change.

 

Please investigate these matters. I rest my case.

 

 

David Bailey

Teignbridge Friends of the Earth