Rail season ticket loan scheme available from September

From September, the University will be operating a new season ticket loan scheme in conjunction with Northern Rail, which offers an easy and affordable way to save money on rail travel.

 

The University will offer staff an annual season ticket through the Northern Rail Corporate Season Ticket Scheme, with the full cost of the ticket being recovered through salary payments over a period of up to 12 months.

 

The price is based on 40 weeks’ commuting, which potentially offers up to 12 weeks’ free travel per year, including weekends.

 

The season tickets will be valid on all trains (not just Northern services) between two chosen stations, such as your home and Salford Crescent.  If you only travel within Greater Manchester, you can also purchase a Greater Manchester Traincard through the scheme, which is currently £787.

 

The cost of the annual season ticket will vary according to the location of your home station but prices can be obtained from Northern Rail's season ticket calculator: http://www.northernrail.org/travel/season-ticket-calculator.

 

Andy Binder, Travel & Transport Officer at the University, said: ““With rail fares set to rise above the rate of inflation in January, we are pleased to be able to offer this scheme, which will help colleagues who travel to the University by rail make savings on their ticket.

 

“If you travel to University by train four days a week or more, for example, then the annual season ticket will save you money on your commuting journey.”

 

Applications for the scheme will be open from Monday, September 5 when full details will be available here http://www.estates.salford.ac.uk/page/Train.

Cycle to Work Scheme will launch in September

From September, employees will be able to participate in a new University-supported Cycle to Work Scheme.

As part of the University’s commitment to encouraging sustainable methods of travel, the scheme will provide staff with the use of a bike and safety equipment.  There is also a financial incentive as the initiative is an HM Revenue and Customs-approved salary sacrifice scheme, meaning there are significant tax and National Insurance savings available.

Applications to join the scheme will be possible during two periods each year – September and March. However, to mark the launch of the scheme, the initial period for submitting applications will be extended to the end of October 2011.

Andy Binder, Travel & Transport Officer, said: “The Cycle to Work Scheme will bring many benefits to staff wishing to cycle to the University.

“There are financial savings on the bike itself and then potential fuel, parking and public transport savings by cycling to the University.  Cycling is also a great way to fit exercise into your daily routine, as well as helping to contribute to a cleaner environment.”

More details on the Cycle to Work Scheme will follow shortly.  In the meantime, check out the Sustainable Travel homepage to explore your travel options.