World Car Free Day
22 September is World Car Free Day, when all around the world towns and cities allow people to experience streets free of motor traffic. It's a great chance to re-imagine our streets around people. So what can we do to make a difference?
CREATE YOUR OWN PARKLET
Pop-up parks (or 'parklets') can help transform streets as destinations for people, not vehicles.
We have all the information and helpful starting points to transform your street into a place for seating, cycle parking or lanes, gardens, play areas or art.
Anyone can set up a parklet or a pop-up park to transform streets into a vibrant community hot spot. You’ll need permission from your local council, but after that, it can be easier than you might think. Why not work together with your neighbours to improve your local area for everyone who lives there?
REDUCE THE CARS ON SCHOOL STREETS
If you are looking to reduce the number of cars around your child's school or perhaps you live on a street that gets congested during drop-off and pick up times, tell your school about our five-day walking challenge!
Classes will work together to make as many active journeys as possible across a week, tracking their progress as they go on the fun and interactive wallchart. Those that participate will receive daily stickers and an end of week reward! This year’s challenge will see pupils discover The Magic of Walking, where they'll meet various magical beings along the way and learn about the important reasons to walk or wheel and its benefits for individuals, communities and the planet!
Celebrate a car-free journey to school ahead of World Car Free Day and start experiencing reduced congestion, cleaner air and safer streets.
HOW WE WALK THE WALK
In need of some inspiration this World Car Free Day? Find out how the Living Streets team choose walking over driving whenever – and wherever – possible.
"Some people say that to live a good life in the countryside you need a car to get around but I like the connectedness, calmness and healing that comes from leading a less car-dependent life."
"Walking with little legs can take a bit longer so sometimes we’ll go part of the way by foot. The journey is very much part of our day’s activities." Charlotte on walking with a young family.
"I’ve never considered a car because I’ve always thought it’s a hassle. Insurance, breaking down, the impact it would have on the environment and our health. It’s a no brainer."