Towns prepare for Car Free Day

Around 20 Irish towns and cities are expected to take part in Car Free Day, which takes place across Europe on Wednesday September 22nd.

Representatives from a number of of local authorities have already met with Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), which is co-ordinating the event, to discuss funding. Up to 1,500 cities and towns across Europe will participate.

Parts of many European urban centres will be pedestrianised, free public transport will be provided all over Europe and other events will take place aimed at encouraging motorists to leave their cars at home and use public transport, walk or cycle.

Mr Tom Halpin, SEI's consumer awareness officer, said one of the main aims of the day was to encourage debate on urban transport options.

"We all recognise that excessive dependence on cars in cities and towns brings many disadvantages to all. If, through Car Free Day, we can plant a seed in the minds of people that there are alternatives to the motor car that address at least some of our needs, we will have achieved something positive."

He added that SEI was extremely encouraged by the number of local authorities which attended a meeting in Portlaoise last month at which plans for Car Free Day were discussed.

Each local authority has until June 11th to lodge applications for funding from SEI.

SEI declined to say how many applications for funding had been received.

Last year some 17 Irish towns and cities took part in the day, including Dublin, Kilkenny, Limerick City and Waterford. Dublin Bus handed out 20,000 free tickets.

However, heavy rain resulted in most motorists opting to use their cars in Dublin, causing worse gridlock than usual.