The annual Travelwest ‘Business Travel Awards’ took place on Thursday 30th November at the Guildhall in Bath, celebrating exceptional projects which embed the concept of sustainable travel.
Organisations from across the four regions within the Travelwest partnership (Bristol, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire and Bath & North East Somerset) were recognised for their success.
A record number of businesses competed this year across a range of categories, showcasing the multiple ways that travel modes can be influenced to have a positive impact on health and the environment.
Recognition was given to motivational campaigns and travel champions who could influence behaviour change, while others noted organisations that provide a high standard of support and facilities for employees that use sustainable methods.
Formal travel plans, which demonstrate good planning for the business and the wider communities, were rewarded through official accreditation.
The most notable awards within Bath and North East Somerset went to Wessex Water, taking both ‘Organisation of the Year’ and also ‘Best Newcomer’. B&NES also scooped 3 out of 5 Travel Plan Accreditations, including Gold for Bath Spa University.
Commenting on this year’s awards, Councillor Tim Warren (Conservative, Mendip), Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “I was extremely pleased that Bath and North East Somerset was the host for this year’s awards, reflecting the increasing importance of sustainable travel to maintain healthy lifestyles and a vibrant economy.
“To see so many organisations from our region in the running, not to mention the success of Wessex Water winning ‘Organisation of the Year’, highlights the culture shift taking place to tackle the problems that face us in managing traffic better.”
West of England Mayor, Tim Bowles, said: “Tackling congestion is a key part of ensuring future economic growth in the West of England. It is good to see so many local businesses playing their part in dealing with the challenges that we face, helping us to maintain our attractiveness as a great place to live and work.”
The full list of winners is as follows:
Best newcomer
For organisations newly offering support and encouragement to employees to reduce travel by car.
Winner: Wessex Water
Highly Commended: Forestry Commission
Most improved workplace
Recognising improvements in the workplace environment to encourage sustainable travel.
Winner: University of Bristol
Highly Commended: Nisbets
Best motivational campaign
Recognising success in motivating staff to make and sustain behavioural change.
Winner: Pukka Herbs
Highly Commended: DAC Beachcroft
Most innovative measure
For organisations that have developed an innovative technique, product or service.
Winner: SevernNet
Highly Commended: Go Travel Solutions
Sustainable Travel Champion
For individuals who have shown outstanding commitment to sustainable travel.
Winner: DAC Beachcroft
Highly Commended: SevernNet
Organisation of the Year
For the organisation that has made an outstanding contribution to sustainable travel.
Winner: Wessex Water
Travelwest Business Travel Plan Accreditations
Apex Hotel: Bronze Level
Edwards: Bronze Level
Bath & North East Somerset Council: Silver Star Level
Bath Spa University: Gold Level
Lyons Davidson: Gold Level
