Birmingham City Council gives alternatives a push

CYCLES, mopeds and electric cars are on Birmingham City Council's stand at the Motor Show to promote the Government's call for viable alternative transport. The authority has already adopted the TravelWise scheme, first launched in Hertfordshire, which promotes alternatives to the car by working with residents, schools and businesses.

The stand showcases mopeds from Italian manufacturer Piaggio, bicycles from Raleigh, including a £1,000 electric model called Select Electric and the Peugeot 106 Electric. A spokesman for Piaggio said: 'These mopeds are a complement to the car and should be parked in every garage alongside the family saloon.'

A spokesman for Birmingham City Council said: 'The council is in a position to lead the way forward and set an example. It is generally accepted that we can not build new roads, so the transportation department is looking to develop others. Through TravelWise we are looking to reduce traffic congestion and improve the environment by supplying advise and help on alternatives.'