Go Car Free

April Fools Day is being rebranded ‘Car Free Day’ across Richmondshire.

As fuel prices continue to rise, everyone travelling to work, school or for leisure are being encouraged to trial alternative ways to get about – bus, bicycle or walking.   And if the car must be used, car sharing may be the way forward.

The ‘Car Free Day’ is part of Richmondshire Eco Week which is being organised for the first time by the Richmond Local Strategic Partnership.  Events will take place throughout the week to highlight ways to save money on fuel and energy - and cut carbon emissions.    Free bus passes are on offer from local companies, there will be demonstrations of electric bikes and a fuel efficient driving simulator to test.

“Because of Richmondshire’s geography, people often think that there is nothing they can do to change their travel habits,” said Climate Change Spokesperson, Councillor Jane Parlour.

“One third of the district’s carbon emissions come from transport.  The car free day will highlight the solutions that are most suited to our area and show that everyone can cut their carbon footprint and, crucially, save money on fuel. And using an alternative could be less stressful than going by car.”

‘Car Free Day’ on April 1 will see:

• local bus companies - Arriva, Dales and District and Little Red Bus community transport scheme - offer a limited number of free bus passes which are being distributed on a first come, first served basis. If there are no scheduled services where you need to go the Little Red Bus offer a demand responsive service.  Register for a free pass at the Eco Week website www.richmondshireecoweek.co.uk, or call Bryony Wilford on 01609 767160.  Applications close by March 22 – or when supplies run out. 
• emphasis on walking and cycling for short journeys, including a guided family bike ride
• encouragement for car sharing with colleagues, neighbours, or by using the national Liftshare database – www.liftshare.com  
• people looking to buy a new car urged to check out the most fuel efficient model for their needs  – information is available on  www.green-car-guide.co.uk and www.nextgreencar.com.

Everyone taking part in the day is being asked to complete the pledge form on the Eco Week website.

The Eco Week – from March 26 to April 3 – will feature a range of events including fuel efficient driving sessions on the Energy Saving Trust advice centre’s driving simulator at Richmond Station on March 26; and a demonstration of electric bikes in Richmond market place on April 2. An online travel survey can be completed at www.est.org.uk/travel for a tailored report on how to drive more economically.

The full events programme is online, or Eco Week leaflets are available from Community Offices in Richmond, Reeth, Leyburn, Colburn and Hawes; Tourist Information Centres and libraries.