Drivers in Hackney are being offered incentives by Hackney Council and its car club provider Streetcar to give up their cars and opt for greener forms of transport.

During European Mobility Week (16-22 Sept), drivers who pledge to give up their cars for good have the chance to win free travel for a year - an annual zones one to two travel card, free membership of Streetcar for a year with £200 driving credit and a £200 bike voucher.

The prize is on offer to drivers who live, work or study in Hackney. Those pledging to give up their cars who do not win the prize, will receive £25 Streetcar credit if they give up their cars within six months of pledging to do so.

Cllr Alan Laing, Hackney Council Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “Sustainable transport is a top priority for Hackney Council because we know that our residents are concerned about carbon emissions, congestion and parking on Hackney’s roads. We want to support people in making greener travel choices and hope more motorists will give up their cars in favour of walking, cycling and using public transport.”

He added: “Giving up your car can save you money, remove the hassle of trying to find a parking space, lead to a healthier lifestyle, and help make Hackney a greener, cleaner place for everyone.”

The ‘Give up your car’ pledge scheme is targeted at drivers who live, work or study in Hackney – in particular, those who have already been considering doing without their vehicles.

Staff from Hackney Council and Streetcar will be promoting the pledge at various locations in the borough throughout European Mobility Week.

Pledge cards are available from Council and Streetcar staff or by downloading from the Council’s website: www.hackney.gov.uk/giveupyourcar

Drivers can get more information from Sharleen Hannon on 020 8356 8040 or sharleen.hannon@hackney.gov.uk