Go all-electric with Saffron Walden Car Club
Uttlesford District Council, in partnership with Co Wheels, has launched a new car club in Saffron Walden, giving members the opportunity to hire an electric car on an hourly basis.
The exciting new project will provide residents and businesses with a convenient, environmentally friendly alternative to owning a private vehicle.
The Saffron Walden Car Club forms part of the council's wider Saffron Walden Clean Air Project. The project - which is funded by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs - is piloting green modes of transport and encouraging active travel, with the long-term aim of reducing car use for short in-town journeys to help reduce road congestion and improve air quality.
Initially, one MG4 SR electric vehicle will be provided in a designated bay at the District Council car park at London Road. A second car will be provided in the New Year.
Cllr Neil Reeve, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Climate Change, said: "The launch of this new car club is good news for Saffron Walden and is part of ongoing efforts to encourage people to think about making more sustainable journeys while they're getting out and about.
"The scheme offers a low-cost, viable alternative to car ownership for people living in or near the town centre, and particularly for those who own vehicles which are only being used occasionally.
"We hope residents and businesses will take advantage of this opportunity and sign up to become a member."
The Saffron Walden Car Club has been commissioned by the council and is managed by Co Wheels. As well as providing an environmentally friendly alternative to car ownership and helping reduce congestion and emissions, it will also save its members up to £1,000 a year on motoring costs.
Research by Co Wheels shows that car clubs have reduced car dependence with, on average, each car club car removing between 10 and 15 privately owned cars from traffic. Car club members also walk, cycle and use public transport more after joining a club.
Richard Falconer, Co Wheels Head of Locations and Business Development, said: "We are thrilled to introduce Co Wheels to the community of Saffron Walden. With most cars estimated to spend 97% of the day in a garage, on a driveway or in a car park, having the option of car-sharing through the Saffron Walden Clean Air Project will encourage more residents to explore cleaner and more sustainable forms of transport. Our partnership with Uttlesford District Council reflects our continued commitment to creating a healthier, greener environment in Saffron Walden and across the UK."
Residents can find out more about how the scheme works, as well as pricing and current promotions, at www.co-wheels.org.uk/saffronwalden. Anyone who signs up today will benefit from no joining or monthly subscriptions fees and they will get £25 driving credit! See the website for details.
For more information about the Saffron Walden Clean Air Project, including more exciting initiatives, visit www.uttlesford.gov.uk/saffron-walden-clean-air-project.
23 October 2023