22 September is World Car Free Day, when all around the world towns and cities allow people to experience streets free of motor traffic. Today, we encourage all of our community to walk, cycle, or use public transport where possible.

It gives us the opportunity to re-imagine our streets as people-centric.

In Brighton, a week-long programme of city-wide events has been compiled to encourage everyone to take part in this year’s car free day. The sessions include information on being more active on your journey to becoming more aware of how cycling, walking, and using public transport can help reduce your carbon footprint.

Other events run by the council this week and beyond include:

• BTN BikeShare giveaway
• eCargo bike exhibition
• My Dream Street children’s exhibition
• The Cilia Dance comes to Valley Gardens
• Move for Change Bus challenge
• City Cycling Skills
• TAKEPART Everyone 2021

Please click each activity to learn more about it.

Opposition spokesperson for environment, transport & sustainability, Councillor Gary Wilkinson, said:

“Whilst in administration, we closed Madeira Drive to cars and called for a car free city centre. We are thrilled that local residents will today be giving the opportunity to experience the city centre with a reduced number of motor vehicles.

“We have been jointly pushing for a car free city centre, and we are excited that we can make that a reality soon.

“We encourage all of the community to take part in the councils Car Free day activities. Any reduction in the use of vehicles is a positive both for our city and the wider environment as we pursue our target of becoming a carbon neutral city by 2030.”

Photo credit: Living streets.