Guernsey transport policy does not 'demonise' cars

The department cited new bus shelters as one of its initiatives to encourage alternative transport

Guernsey's traffic strategy is not about "demonising the car", the Environment Department says.

It follows criticism from the retiring chairman of the Guernsey Bicycle Group who claims there is a lack of effort to reduce car use.

An Environment Department spokesman said the accusation was "simply not true".

He said alternative forms of transport were offered in the hope that drivers would choose these options instead.

The spokesman highlighted an almost 10% increase in bus use since the current strategy was agreed in 2006.

It said it had built bus shelters "at various exposed locations", improved commuter, school and evening bus services and provided covered cycle stands and additional motorcycle parking.

The department withdrew its new transport policy document from debate in November, following the withdrawal of bus company Island Coachways from negotiations for a contract.

The company has agreed to continue its operations until the end of March, while a new provider is sought.

Environment Minister Peter Sirett told BBC Guernsey on Thursday that he expected to make an announcement "imminently" on an agreement with bus company HCT to become the island's new bus service provider.