More than a thousand people in the West Midlands have agreed to give up their car for the day as part of an international green campaign.

The region’s public transport promoter Centro extended its offer to commuters to give a free travel pass for In Town Without My Car Day on Thursday (22 September) in return for pledging to leave their car behind and travel by bus, train or tram instead.  A total of 1350 motorists agreed to take part.

“This shows that as the public transport offer in the West Midlands continues to improve we can all help to cut congestion,” comments Cllr Gary Clarke, chairman of the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority, which sets policy for Centro.

He says if a reasonable proportion of those taking part in car free day continue to use public transport it will make a big difference.  Motorists are already outnumbered during the Birmingham rush hour by commuters on buses, trains and trams.

During European Mobility Week, which started on Friday 16 September, the focus is on clever commuting and offering people travel choices.

“We are not anti-car.  Our aim is for public transport to be a viable and cost effective alternative for motoring, especially for the daily commute.  That way everyone benefits from reduced congestion,” adds Cllr Clarke.

Recent statistics showed that one of Centro’s most successful congestion-busting schemes saves West Midlands commuters around £10 million a year in motoring costs.  The park and ride facilities at rail stations and Metro stops also take more than 2.5 million car journeys off the region’s congested roads.

Link: International campaign website