• Transport

    Smarter travel means cleaner air, stronger connections, and a more sustainable North Yorkshire for everyone.

Transport

Getting around North Yorkshire sustainably can be tricky – we’re a huge county with rural distances and limited public transport in some areas. But progress is being made to green our travel: from new cycle routes to electric vehicle chargers even in small towns.

For individuals, it’s about finding opportunities to walk, cycle, share journeys or use public transport when possible; for communities, improving transport access is key to both cutting emissions and combating isolation. Even if we can’t eliminate car use overnight, we can all take steps to travel smarter and cleaner.

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  • Improve local transport links. Parish councils and local groups can work with North Yorkshire Council to advocate for safer, more accessible travel. The council is rolling out active travel schemes and sustainable transport packages in places like Harrogate West. Local input can make a difference — from getting zebra crossings in key areas to securing better walking paths or more frequent buses.

  • Community car share or e-bike libraries. Some towns have launched shared electric car clubs, with booking systems for residents to access EVs affordably. Others have experimented with e-bike libraries, letting people borrow electric bikes to trial low-carbon commuting. These schemes could be supported through local grants or business sponsorship, and make a great project for a green group or parish initiative.

  • Greener fleets for organisations. If your organisation runs minibuses, vans or cars, consider upgrading to electric or hybrid vehicles. The York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority recently funded “Community Transport Decarbonisation” projects, helping to replace older diesel vehicles with low-emission alternatives. Look out for further funding rounds or pilot schemes to support greener operations.

  • Travel planning and remote options. Hubs like village halls can support telehealth, remote working, or digital events to cut unnecessary journeys. Organisations can create travel plans encouraging staff or members to use carpooling, public transport or bikes — and even reward low-carbon travel. Partnering with nearby employers or schools can amplify your efforts.

  • Join the transport conversation. Have your say on future transport in the region. Through the York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority, new funding streams and consultations are shaping how buses, trains and green routes develop. Getting your village’s voice heard could help secure EV chargers, improve footpaths, or bring back a much-needed bus route.

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