Nine out of ten Belfast commuters would favour using sustainable transport one day a week, and leave the car at home, according to the Northern Ireland transport authority.

A study undertaken by the roads department found 93% of people would be prepared to leave the car at home and use sustainable transport when possible.

The survey was conducted to mark the launch of Travelwise "Once a Week" campaign which encourages people to leave the car behind, in favour of public transport, cycling and walking.

The findings have been welcomed by Transport Minister Conor Murphy, who said he was "encouraged" by the response.

The Minister said: "I am encouraged by the strong message of support coming from people in Belfast. I appreciate for many people the car is a necessity and sustainable modes are not a realistic option.

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"The Travelwise survey found that 55% of commuters who drive to work have cut back on the number of miles they drive with 44% spending between an extra £10 to £20 per week on fuel and a further 31% spending an extra £20-£50 per week which equates to hundreds and thousands of pounds per year."

Speaking at the launch of the 'Once a Week' campaign, Brian Moreland, Head of Travelwise NI said: "I appreciate that for many people leaving the car at home is not an option but by car-sharing with at least one other person, be they family member, friend or colleague you can automatically halve your fuel costs."

Thirty per cent of people in the survey favoured the use of public transport which would allow people to avoid congested traffic and enable them to read a book or paper on the bus or train. Our survey showed that nearly half (48%) of commuters coming into Belfast spent between 1 and 2 hours on their journey each day - this works out as between 5 and 10 hours a week in traffic.

When asked what put people off swapping the car for public transport, cycling, car sharing or walking 9% said cost of public transport, 15% said convenience, 12% said weather conditions was a deterrent with 47% saying that they were just 'set in their ways'.

"Seventy four per cent said financial savings would be the biggest incentive to get them to change their ways," said Mr Moreland.

(PR/JM)