Date: 30th November 2008

Guest speaker, Brian Souter, Chief Executive of Stagecoach will share his views on developing public transport in Scotland

Thursday 6^th November 2008, 12:00-14:00, Scotsman Hotel, Edinburgh

SEStran, in partnership with Edinburgh and Fife Chambers of commerce, is holding a business lunch, to examine ways of developing transportation in the region, and throughout Scotland, that will meet the needs of business in the 21^st Century.

The event will highlight the role that employers can play in the success of initiatives such as the Salary Sacrifice Scheme, which offers employees discounted bus travel to work. 

Guest speaker, Brian Souter will also outline his vision for the development of transport services nationwide, following which the floor will be opened for questions, chaired by SEStran Chair, Cllr Russell Imrie.

SEStran Chair, Cllr Russell Imrie said: 

“SEStran is committed to making public transport the mode of choice for most travellers; particularly commuters. As congestion on our roads increases, we need to find new and inventive ways to give people an alternative to driving. But this can only be achieved if the public have the option of an affordable, high-quality, public transport experience”. 

“The Salary Sacrifice Scheme offers staff cheaper travel on buses, through making a single monthly payment through their employer’s staff benefits scheme. They can save up to 40% on the cost of an annual bus pass and also use it at other times, provided its main use is for work. Participating businesses benefit from a reduced need for parking provision and easier retention of staff. Bigger employers can also benefit financially from National Insurance savings of up to 12.8%.” 

 

Ron Hewitt, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, added :

 

  "Brian Souter's witty and engaging speaking style is based on his many years of success as a transport innovator.  He is the perfect foil for an audience passionate about the future of our business climate.  At a time when it has never been clearer that economic success is dependent on investment in our transport infrastructure this event is bound to provoke leading debate on the future of South East Scotland's transport to which SEStran is dedicated.  Innovative solutions will be key for the future of Edinburgh City Region's wealth and the wellbeing of its citizens, workers and visitors."

SEStran - South East of Scotland Transport Partnership - is one of seven new Statutory Regional Transport Partnerships (RTP) created by the Transport (Scotland) Act 2005 and is a partnership of eight local councils covering the Borders, the Lothians, Edinburgh, Fife, Falkirk and Clackmannanshire.

For further information, please contact:

Andrew Dougal, SEStran Communications Officer

T: 0131-524-5161

M: 07889-010-291

E: Andrew.dougal@sestran.gov.uk 

Graham Bell,

Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Press & Policy 

T: 01890 88 2448 

M: 07989 330 550 

E: graham.bell@edinburghchamber.co.uk  

Notes :

1. To book a place at this event please call the Edinburgh Chamberof Commerce Events Team on 0131 221 3194 with credit / debit card details.

2. What is the salary sacrifice scheme?

It is a tax exemption scheme currently available for bus travel to and from the workplace. You save on income tax/National insurance contributions through a “Salaray Sacrifice” arrangement vcia your employers staff benefist scheme.

What are the benefitsto employees?

• Savings of 20-40% on an annual bus pass.
• Income and NI exempt – savings up to 41%
• Use the bus pass any time (as long as the majority of use is for travel to and from work)
• Convenient payment – direct from your salary. Bus pass delivered directkly to your desk or door.

What are the benefits to employers?

• NI savings of up to 12.8%
• Savings can make the scheme self-funding
• Limited employer admin as part of staff benefits scheme
• Assists in staff retention
• Key green travel plan measure
• Helps support businesses with limited car parking spaces  

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