Following the success of the Sustainable Visitor Transport Climathon event at Seaton Delaval Hall in February, a group of key transport stakeholders from across the North East met again to continue their collaborative work shaping sustainable and inclusive visitor transport solutions for the region.
The meeting took place online and was co-hosted by NICRE and the National Trust. It brought together transport operators, local authorities, representatives from visitor attractions, transport user groups and community organisations to share updates and build on the momentum generated at the Climathon earlier this year.
Developing practical strategies to improve transport links, accessibility, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance the overall visitor experience remain key priorities. The network reflects a shared commitment to supporting economic growth and environmental sustainability, ensuring transport options are inclusive and accessible for all users.
With tourism a vital part of the North East economy in both its rural and urban areas, the group recognises the importance of delivering innovative solutions that connect people to the region’s diverse destinations.
Nick Mason, National Trust, said “this initiative is a great example of cross-sector collaboration. We’re working together to imagine what’s possible for visitor transport in the long term, and to design and deliver solutions that benefit local residents, visitors, and the planet.”
Following the publication of the North East Combined Authority’s new Local Transport Plan in Spring 2025, the group also had the opportunity to feed back to NECA and comment on a forthcoming Days Out by Bus scheme.
The group plans to meet again later this year, with a focus on developing new solutions and identifying funding opportunities to turn ideas into action.
If local visitor attractions would like to sign up to the Days Out By Bus scheme, please email Geoff Wade at geoff.wade@northeast-ca.gov.uk