A BRIEFING on green transport initiatives has been given a lukewarm reception in rural Richmondshire.

North Yorkshire County Council expert Geoff Gardner was at the district authority's headquarters, this week, to outline policies aimed at encouraging more drivers to leave their cars at home.

During a 30-minute seminar, members of the Access Travel and Transport Group were updated on innovative schemes, already adopted by some companies around the region.

Charging for parking spaces, and in-house competitions rewarding those who use the bus, or cycle or walk to work, were among the examples.

County Hall also has a role to play expanding public transport, establishing more footpaths, and encouraging the cycle route network to grow.

Although Thursday's meeting was not against the principle of developing a green travel plan for Richmondshire, members pointed out the district's geography made some ideas impractical.

Councillor Michael Heseltine, who also chairs the county authority, said: "It seems we are being told the car is evil and that isn't right. There is a big difference between towns and the countryside and the solutions for cities would not necessarily work in North Yorkshire.

"Public transport would have to be efficient, clean and cheap, and that would involve a huge infusion of money."

The committee also recognised parents were reluctant to allow their children to walk to school for fear of something happening to them.

Mr Gardner was told cycling was less likely to be a popular alternative to the car in a district with so many hills.