Scott Wilding
Name: Scott Wilding, MIHT MCILT
Job: Transport planner
Employer: London Borough of Redbridge
Qualifications: BA politics and international relations, University of Westminster, 2001; MSc transport planning and management, 2006
After I graduated, I joined Transport for London (TfL) as part of the travel demand management team. Our job was to allocate money for various transport-related projects. I applied for a masters degree and, at around the same time, a job became available at Redbridge. The council allowed me time off to study, as the academic and professional qualifications would give me the credibility I need to do my job.
Arranging funds for transport projects
A large part of my job involves bidding for funds from the European Union and TfL. I’ve particularly tapped into the European side, so I frequently go on business trips – I’m going to Amsterdam on Monday, and to Brussels and Belfast soon. But these aren’t just free holidays – I have to secure the money! Each conference or bid requires a great deal of preparation and I also have to make sure that financial schemes are monitored. I wanted to work for Redbridge because it’s where I live, which means I get to see the results of my work. I recently arranged funding to relight a park in Wanstead and I’ve raised money for many other worthwhile projects.
One of my other duties is to chase Section 106. For example, if a developer wants to put up a block of flats, we are entitled to ask for a contribution to our funds – this could be something like a quarter of a million pounds for road surfacing. I then make sure the money is spent on the right thing.
Promoting green transport
My job initially focused on promoting sustainability and green transport and, though I’ve carved out a role focused on funding, I still have responsibility for various environmental matters. This includes managing the travel awareness team, being in charge of walking schemes and managing the school travel plan work programme. These often work together – for example, we’re running a ‘walk to school week’ soon. I’m on the steering group for DIY Planet Repairs, a London-wide campaign to promote sustainability, and I also organise and attend public awareness events.
