Plans to support a successful car club scheme are to be discussed by Norwich City Council’s executive committee at a meeting on Wednesday (4 March).
Norwich’s car club scheme has expanded to be one of the largest outside major metropolitan areas since its launch in 2006.
It grew by 200 per cent in 2008 and saw its largest rise in membership ever in January 2009. But it is not yet self-sustaining - and the Civitas funding which supports it is about to run out.
Members are recommended to agree to allocate up to £30,888 of section 106 funds intended to sustainable transport initiatives to supporting the club.
Brian Morrey, executive member for sustainable city development, said he supported the proposal. He said: "This is particularly important in a time of recession, when people could make significant savings by using a car club rather than owning their own vehicle.
"I want to see a successful car club for the city. It is better for the environment and helps people who only sometimes need a car but can't afford to run one. I would very much like to see this scheme linked to the council's Go4Less card which helps people on low incomes access services at a discount."
Surveys of Norwich members have shown that typically one car club car can replace around six private vehicles, and members of the car club tend to walk, cycle and use public transport significantly more than an average car owner.
Also, the car club gives access to a car for those who would otherwise be unable to afford it, and several of the cars are currently close to social housing developments.
If the funding is approved, the car club could remain in the hands of the current operator or be taken over by an alternative one.
For more information and to see a full report click here.