COMPANIES in Hartlepool are being urged to back a drive to reduce dependence on the car and prevent traffic congestion in the town.

Karen Wilkinson, Hartlepool Borough Council's travel plan co-ordinator, is offering her expertise to employers to help them prepare travel plans tailored to the particular needs of their workforce.

She said: "Car-sharing schemes, personalised journey planning, measures to make cycling more appealing and discounted bus fares are all examples of schemes that have evolved from work place travel plans in other parts of the country.

"However, it is very important to stress that we are not embarking on an anti-car crusade as we recognise many people need to use their cars to do their jobs effectively.

"The overall aim of a travel plan is about increasing the range of travel choices."

Ms Wilkinson is already working with North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Trust, which employs about 2,500 staff at the University Hospital of Hartlepool and a similar number at the University Hospital of North Tees, in Stockton.

Barrie Kirton, the trust's assistant director of operations, said: "Major car parking works have been carried out at both our hospitals, but if you provide more spaces then more people tend to use cars. Our main business is treating patients and we do not want to be spending our money building new car parks."

Companies wanting to develop a travel plan are asked to contact Ms Wilkinson on (01429) 523259.