Olympics organisers today warned that Londoners will need to ‘travel differently’ during the
2012 Games, exactly one year ahead of what is likely to be the busiest day of the event.
The Government is predicting that an additional 3 million trips will be made in the capital
on August 3 2012, which is the first day for track and field events. These extra trips will be
on top of the normal 12 million trips on public transport in London on a daily basis.
To mark the beginning of the one year countdown, Transport Minister Norman Baker
visited BT’s offices in the heart of the capital as the company showcased new techniques
for businesses and individuals to communicate with their office and clients.
Mr Baker is urging Londoners and commuters to reconsider their normal travel
arrangements during the Olympic Games and is recommending that those who live close
to work should cycle or walk. Commuters who live further away are being encouraged
to try different routes, avoid peak journey times, work remotely from home or use video
conferencing for meetings.
Mr Baker said: ‘The Games will be a once-in-a-generation test for both our transport
system and our adaptability. As we edge ever closer to the Olympics, hand-in-hand with
new investment must go new solutions.
‘It’s time to oil the creaking bike, dig out the walking boots, work out how to use the video
conferencing equipment, and fire up the laptop gathering dust at the back of the cupboard.’
