The project, the first of its kind in the UK, is designed to get polluting cars off the road
- 12:30, 21 FEB 2020
People in Coventry are being offered a unique opportunity to be paid up to £3,000 a year to give up their cars.
A Transport for West Midlands scheme is being launched in the city offering drivers the chance to hand over their motor and get a financial boost.
However, it woudn’t be cash – those who scrap their cars would get between £1,500 and £3,000 worth of mobility credits to spend, using a smartphone app or Swift travel card, on public transport, taxis, bike share or a car club.
It is part of a £1 million West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Mobility Credits initiative which will kick off with a trial in Coventry next year.
TfWM is working with Coventry City Council on the trial and is looking for car users to take part in a workshop on Wednesday, February 26, to look at the proposals and help shape them.
The project, the first of its kind in the UK, is designed to get polluting cars off the road, ease traffic congestion and improve air quality.
Cllr Jim O’Boyle, Coventry City Council cabinet member for jobs and regeneration, said: “This is a great idea which provides incentives to motorists. The key now is to work up the scheme in a way that benefits people who may be dependent on using a vehicle as part of their daily responsibilities. It’s about encouraging change without imposing it.”
The trial is funded from the £22 million Future Mobility Zone grant given to the region by the Department for Transport to develop and test new transport technology and schemes.
Later in the year TfWM will invite people, who are willing to give up their cars, to apply for the two year pilot project.
The credits will be provided on a smartphone app through which participants will also be able to plan and book their journeys.
You can volunteer for the workshop here.
Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street said: “Instead of asking people to trade in their old car for a new one, we are offering them credits to try something new – such as join a car share scheme or take the bus or train.
“Not only will people be saving money on the cost of running and maintaining their cars, but they will also help the region ease traffic congestion and improve air quality in the fight against climate change. This will make a considerable difference to Coventry as the city welcomes thousands of visitors next year for City of Culture.”