Work begins on university’s new sustainable travel hub

Work is underway to create a new sustainable travel hub at the University of Derby’s Kedleston Road site.

Thanks to a partnership with Derby City Council, students and staff will soon be able to take full advantage of the city’s growing sustainable transport offer at the university’s largest site, two miles from the city centre.

The hub, which is due to be completed in early 2025, will offer electric vehicle (EV) charge points, Real Time Information (RTI) travel screens and secure cycle parking.

Councillor Carmel Swan, the city council’s cabinet member for climate change, transport and sustainability, said: “This is an exciting project, and I’m thrilled that we have partnered with the University of Derby to bring it to life.

“We’ve made great progress in expanding and diversifying the sustainable and active travel choices available in the city and it’s important that we make sure that these schemes are also accessible to students who choose to study in Derby.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, vice-chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “We are delighted to have started construction on this transformative project, bringing greater access to sustainable travel facilities for our students, staff, partners, and visitors, whilst reinforcing our commitment to environmental sustainability and the road to net-zero.”

Designed with the capacity to grow as the city’s sustainable travel offer continues to expand, the hub will allow the university’s staff and students greater choice when choosing how to travel.

Funded by £800,000 from the Government’s Future Transport Zones fund, the hub will complement the city’s growing active travel offer, which gives citizens a range of transport options.

Carmel said: “Providing students and university staff with accessible and affordable alternative transport options will further support our climate ambitions and enhance Derby’s attractiveness as a leading university city.”

Kathryn said: “Our continued partnership with the city council demonstrates that the university is committed to sustainability and its civic role within the city.

“We are equally excited to continue this collaboration and develop healthier and cleaner travel options within Derby.”