York gets ready for car-free day

19 August 2009

Motorists in York are being urged to switch to cheaper and alternative ways of getting around than by car.

A car-free day will be organised next month by the City of York Council and local businesses to reduce the traffic congestion on York roads and highlight healthier modes of transport such as cycling and walking.

Those registering in advance will get free travel on First and Transdev buses.

Damon Copperthwaite, assistant director for City development and Transport for City of York Council, said: "York Car Free Day is about encouraging people who would usually drive into the city to try cycling, using buses or walking for the day.

"The idea is to show motorists that there are cheaper, easier and more environmentally friendly and healthier alternatives to using the car."

The council has clarified that it does not plan to close down roads in and around the city on the day.

Mr Copperthwaite added: "We recognise that private cars do have a place in modern life, but if people could reduce their car journeys and only use the car when it's absolutely necessary, York would be a cleaner, greener and healthier city.

"And rather ironically, it would also mean that essential car journeys would be even quicker because of decreased congestion levels."

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