York's to have first car free day on September 22

York’s first ever Car Free Day will take place on Tuesday, September 22 in the hope of getting as many people as possible to find an alternative means of getting into the city.

Thousands of motorists across the city are being urged to walk, cycle or take the bus whether they are going to work, school or the shops.

York’s transport leaders want to get drivers out of their cars and on to greener, cheaper and healthier modes of transport, and a spokesman for City of York Council, which is organising the event with local bus providers and Cycling City York, said: “It is hoped that as many people as possible will find an alternative means of getting around the city.”

Officials said transport congestion is a growing problem in York, and are keen to get people to leave their cars at home where possible. They said journeys of up to three miles into the city centre take no less time when cycling, and they are also cheaper and healthier.

Various local employers have already backed the scheme, including Nestlé, the University of York, CPP, York Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and York College.

This is just the next step in York’s attempts to get more people cycling in the city. Plans for a new cycling hub took a huge step forward this week, with the hub offering a secure bike-parking unit and cycle station. And this weekend sees the city hold its first ever Festival of Cycling a free two day event at Rowntrees Park this Saturday and Sunday, featuring There will be try out tracks and bike experiences and guided cycle rides.