Earlier this year, 12 Oxford residents who regularly drive successfully completed the Oxford Car Free Challenge: with guidance and support, they tried alternative ways of getting around for three weeks.

The project was run by LCON in partnership with climate charity Possible and the Centre for Climate Change and Social Transformations (CAST). Participants reported lots of big changes and positive impacts, and valuable lessons to help inspire and support others who want to do the same. You can read their stories here. And here’s a short video about their experience.

Car Free Cafes

To share these findings and support those wishing to reduce their car use LCON are running two free ‘Car Free Cafes’ at the Oxford Friends Meeting House on St Giles’:

Sunday 2 June, 2.30 – 4pm
Sunday 30 June, 3pm – 4.30pm

These will be an opportunity to hear from residents who have reduced their car journeys, share lessons from the Oxford Car Free Challenge, and talk to the Oxford Car Free Challenge team about specific questions and challenges.  You can find out more and register through Eventbrite. The events are open to all, and we would be delighted to see you at either or both!

Join the national Car Free Challenge

And if you’re looking for an extra incentive, Possible have now launched a national 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. And you’ll be entered into a prize draw with the chance of winning some fantastic prizes. Find out how it works and how to sign up on the Possible website.

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.