LIB DEMS SAY DO IT DIFFERENT IN DURHAM (Fiona Hall MEP)

Fiona Hall MEP <info@fionahall.org.uk>

LIB DEMS SAY DO IT DIFFERENT IN DURHAM

January 12, 2008 12:00 AM

Durham Liberal Democrats have thrown their full backing behind the City's 'Do It Different Day'. On Tuesday, 15th January residents and commuters into Durham City are being asked to leave their cars at home and use public transport wherever possible.

The initiative, jointly sponsored by Durham City Council, the County Council and Durham FM, aims to lower carbon emissions by encouraging people to use public transport more instead of their cars.

Welcoming the event, Fiona Hall, Durham City's Liberal Democrat MEP, said:

"Durham should be proud of once again being at the forefront of national forward-thinking initiatives. Similar events have been successful in two other cities in the UK and I am confident that the day will be a great success here.

"Traffic is spoiling Durham's unique charm and I urge as many people as possible to back a scheme that will help to preserve the City's tradition of history and culture."

Deputy Leader of Durham City Council, Carol Woods, said:

"I am delighted to have helped to bring this enterprise to historic Durham. I will be leaving my car at home for the day and travelling to and from work on a bus.

"There are great plans for the day including large collective bike rides and walking 'buses' into the City. Additional secure areas have been set up at the Gates Shopping Centre multi-storey car park for those wanting somewhere to park their bikes.

"The day is a great opportunity to showcase our beautiful city as it will be covered by Channel 4 for broadcast on national television in March. We know that it will not be possible for everyone to participate, but we do hope as many as possible take part."