BOSSES at Southampton-based mapping giant Ordnance Survey have slashed on-site parking problems at a stroke with an innovative Green Travel deal with First buses.

The new agreement with First, Hampshire's principal local bus operator, allows more than 2,000 staff based at the Romsey Road HQ to get discounted fares.

Not only will staff be able to use the cheap ticket for daily travel to and from work, they can also use it on any normal First service in the city at weekends and during the evening.

The deal also applies to Customs and Excise and P&O staff who share the same Maybush site.

Staff car parking has long been a problem there, and it is hoped the move will enable many employees to effectively travel hassle-free door to door, cutting the numbers of cars clogging city streets.

Marc Reddy, commercial director for First in Hampshire & Dorset, said: "Ordnance Survey has a responsible attitude towards our environment and the untenable traffic congestion issues in the region and within Southampton city centre.

"We are delighted that this has resulted in them taking positive steps towards resolving a very difficult situation."

David Barrett, estate manager for Ordnance Survey, said: "We welcome this agreement which will support our site travel plan in encouraging staff to use a viable and cost effective alternative to the car.'

Ordnance Survey is just the latest in a lengthy list of major Hampshire employers to tackle the travel to work and congestion issues.

Other employers include: BAA, B&Q Head Office, Ford, HM Customs & Excise, Itchen College, P&O, Portsmouth City Council, Portsmouth NHS Trust, the Royal Navy, Southampton NHS Trust, Southampton University, WestQuay Shopping Centre, Zurich Financial Services and Inland Revenue.