SEStran (South East of Scotland Transport Partnership) is proud to sponsor the 2012 Borders Walking Festival. The event, which is now in its 17th year, plays a major role in encouraging people to take up walking and to enjoy the wide variety of beautiful landscapes the Borders has to offer.
SEStran’s Role
SEStran is the Regional Transport partnership (RTP) for South East Scotland, comprising eight local authorities including ; Clackmannan, Fife, East Lothian, West Lothian and Midlothian, Edinburgh, Falkirk and the Borders. Our aim is to develop a comprehensive, sustainable, transportation system for the region that will enable business to function effectively, and improve access to health care, education, public services and employment opportunities for all.
The task is urgent. South East Scotland’s population is expected to grown by more than 10% by 2023. If future generations are not to face increasing congestion and a major threat to the economy and the environment, we must achieve a step-change in public behaviour towards transportation.
Why Walk?
Walking is an ideal form of transportation for shorter journeys and contributes towards cutting traffic congestion and improved public health. By walking for just 30 minutes a day, you can reduce the risk of death by heart disease or stroke and significantly improve overall health. There is no need for an expensive gym membership, any special equipment and you can do it at any age; with a sturdy pair of shoes and (in Scotland, at least!) a waterproof, you can improve your health, strength and stamina through walking while shopping, going to work, or just getting out and about enjoying the countryside.
Getting there
SEStran is committed to promoting sustainable forms of transportation. Please try to use public transport if possible to get to the walk centre or why not extend your day out by getting there on foot or by bicycle?
If you really need to use the car, why not share the journey with friends? A fully laden car can potentially take up to three vehicles off the road, while sharing the drive to work can make a real contribution towards cutting traffic congestion and reducing the region’s carbon footprint. You can find out more about the benefits of car sharing on the TripshareBorders page.
Russell Imrie
Chair of SEStran