The Oxford Car Free Challenge completed successfully at the end of March: twelve Oxford residents who regularly drive tried alternative ways of getting around for three weeks. They were supported by LCON project officers who advised on journey planning, cycle training and hire and similar.
Our project partners, climate charity Possible and the Centre for Climate Change and Social Transformations (CAST), have collected feedback, data and insights on the participants’ experiences – what went well, what was difficult, and what types of support really helped. A big thank you to the twelve who took part – we saw lots of big changes, positive impacts and valuable lessons to help inspire and support others who want to do the same. Here are some of their reactions:
“I was surprised by how I didn’t miss the car.”
“I had a lot of fun with it.”
“I’m getting to appreciate Oxford again.”
You can find out more and read their stories on the Possible website. A more in-depth report and analysis of the findings will be out soon, including what the main barriers were and what support participants found most useful. We look forward to sharing this as soon as it is available – watch this space!
Join in! Take part in the nationwide Going Car Free Challenge
Following the success of the Oxford Car Free Challenge, Possible have now launched a nationwide Going Car Free Challenge, inviting drivers to sign up to reduce their car use during the month of June.
By signing up you will have access to support from the Possible team, and each week Possible will suggest milestones to inspire, encourage and help keep the momentum going. These might be to swap a regular car journey for a car-free option, to talk about the Going Car Free Challenge with your friends and family, or even to write to your local council about people-friendly streets. And by signing up you’ll be entered into a prize draw with the chance of winning some fantastic prizes. Find out exactly how it works and how to sign up on the Possible website.
Looking for support to reduce your car use in Oxford? Join us at LCON’s Car Free Cafes in June
We are keen for as many people as possible to benefit from the learnings of the Oxford Car Free Challenge. To support those wishing to reduce their car use – both as part of the nationwide Going Car Free Challenge and beyond – we are running two free ‘Car Free Cafes’ in June. All are welcome and you don’t have to take part in the national challenge to come to the cafes (although we encourage everyone to do so!).
The Car Free Cafes will run at the Oxford Friends Meeting House, 43 St Giles’, Oxford OX1 3LW, on:
Sunday 2 June, 2.30 – 4pm
Sunday 30 June, 3pm – 4.30pm
The events are an opportunity to hear from residents who have reduced their car journeys and share lessons from the Oxford Car Free Challenge, and to talk to the Oxford Car Free Challenge team about specific questions and challenges.
The first cafe will be a chance to meet others joining Possible’s Going Car Free Challenge and looking to try alternatives to the car, with tips and resources for car free journeys; the second cafe will provide a chance to swap stories and lessons and flag up future support needs. The events are open to all, and we would be delighted to see you at either or both!
Register here to take part, or just turn up on the day.
We hope to see you there!
Organisations involved in the Car Free Challenge
The Oxford Car Free Challenge was run by the climate charity Possible in partnership with LCON and the Centre for Climate Change and Social Transformations (CAST). The project was funded by the Foundation for Integrated Transport, Oxfordshire County Council’s Councillor Priority Fund and many Oxford residents. We are grateful to businesses and organisations that supported the Challenge, including Avanti Cycling, Bainton Bikes, Co Wheels, Laka Bike Insurance, Pedal & Post, Voi and Oxfordshire County Council’s road safety team.
