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MVA Consultancy's PUDO Assessment procedure hailed as national model for success

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A pioneering tool developed by MVA Consultancy has been recognised as a national model for success by Scotland’s Road Safety Framework.

The transport consultancy developed an innovative and unique approach at the forefront of increasing safety for school transport users at pick-up and drop-off (PUDO) points which is set to be highlighted by the Scottish Government’s framework to 2020 published on Monday 15 June.
Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson discussed progress of the framework plans today in Aberdeen which will be based on the government’s recognition of both current achievements and the importance of significantly reducing road accident casualty figures.
MVA developed the PUDO Assessment procedure under contract to West Dunbartonshire Council and was subsequently commissioned in 2008 to develop PUDO training and user manuals by Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT). 

More recently Dumfries and Galloway Council and Aberdeenshire Council have recognised the benefits of assessing and improving school transport PUDOs and have commissioned the consultancy to assess several routes. A PDA application linked directly to a GIS database has been developed by MVA for Dumfries and Galloway.

The PUDO Assessment process has been rigorously tested by MVA, initially through a pilot study of 20 sites in West Dunbartonshire and then rigorous application of the finalised methodology to a further 155 locations in that area.

Dougie McDonald, MVA’s Divisional Director for Scotland, said:  “Studies to date have proved that PUDO Assessment can be effectively implemented at a wide range of locations. Low cost remedial measures are being identified and implemented improving school transport road safety.

“We are delighted to be playing a leading role in developing this innovative methodology and helping to make school transport safer, and we are currently looking at potential improvements which could make the PUDO assessment process even more efficient and effective.”

In 2007, 281 people died on Scotland’s roads and a further 16,063 were injured in accidents.

Information for Editors:

Industry-leader MVA Consultancy provides advice on transport and other policy areas, to central, regional and local government, agencies, developers, operators and financiers

A diverse group of results-oriented people, we are part of a 500-strong team worldwide. Through client business planning, customer research and strategy development we create solutions that work for real people in the real world.

For further information please contact:

NEmma O'Sullivan on 01483 742925
or email eosullivan@mvaconsultancy.com

or

Sarah White on 01483 742975
or email swhite@mvaconsultancy.com

15 June 2009