A programme is being launched in Milton Keynes aiming to provide local employers and staff with a range of travel benefits and services to help make commuting and business travel cheaper, easier and more sustainable.

The Smartgo Milton Keynes business travel network has been developed and co-ordinated by specialist sustainable travel consultancy, Go Travel Solutions with support from Milton Keynes Council and Volkswagen. It will be launched to local businesses at a free event from on February 24 at DoubleTree (StadiumMK) in Milton Keynes.

The Smartgo Milton Keynes programme offers a membership package that includes travel incentives and discounts (including on car hire), transport expertise and collaboration opportunities with other employers and transport providers. 

Andrew Bannister, chairman of the Smartgo Milton Keynes steering group and head of group environmental management at Volkswagen Group said: "Smartgo Milton Keynes is an initiative which combines two things close to our hearts – promotion of smart, efficient transport, and the sustainable economic growth of our UK home city. We are delighted to be able to support it."

Keith McLean, cabinet minister for transport at Milton Keynes Council, said: "Our aim is to give people across Milton Keynes the widest choice possible when it comes to travel and to offer affordable and healthier solutions. Smartgo Milton Keynes will help to deliver this to local businesses and residents alike and I’m delighted that Milton Keynes Council are able to support this."

Robin Pointon, managing director of Go Travel Solutions, said: "The Smartgo programme is a proven model with other projects in Leicester and Stevenage already up and running. We are delighted to be partnering with Milton Keynes Council and Volkswagen, transport operators and local businesses to provide them with enhanced options for commuting and business travel both now and into the future."