BUSINESSES are being given the chance to save cash and help the environment as part of a new transport strategy.

A consultant taken on as part of a five-year initiative in North Yorkshire is now offering free advice to firms in considering the impact of their transport strategy on the community.

The move could lead to companies identifying ways of saving money at the same time as pursuing a greener approach.

Geoff Gardner, newly appointed travel awareness officer for North Yorkshire County Council, said he aimed to run training sessions for companies wanting to demonstrate a greater commitment to transport and travel.

He said the one-hour sessions were part of a new strategy in which Government is asking businesses to consider how their use of transport - from employees getting to work, to moving goods around the country - affects the wider community.

One initiative has already seen the county council encourage employers to promote cycling to work among staff, with cycling seen as a way of keeping sickness levels down.

An overall approach to transport could see companies cut their fuel bills by reducing unnecessary journeys.

Some firms are already producing voluntary travel plans, in advance of expected Government legislation.

Mr Gardner said: "A key part of my job in North Yorkshire will be to get the best out of a travel plan while keeping down costs and disruption for companies and their staff.

"The whole package offers a mixture of advantages, ranging from a healthier workforce to improving the company image.

"Companies such as Eddie Stobart Transport have shown that who you are and what you stand for is becoming as important as what you sell."

The initiative is part of the county's transport plan, which will be submitted to the Government this month along with a bid for £14m to fund a range of measures.

Proposals contained in the plan include a feasibility study on the possible re-opening of the railway line linking Northallerton with Ripon and Harrogate, a review of the difficulties faced by disabled travellers and providing more information on public transport in the county.

Companies wanting to arrange a free consultation should contact Mr Gardner on (01609) 532371.