Agenda item

To receive and consider the report of the Communications & Community Engagement Officer concerning Car Free Day in September 2021.

The Committee received and considered the report of the Communications and Community Engagement Officer regarding Car Free Day 2021.

The Council’s Stronger Communities Committee had already agreed this event, but as the Committee most concerned with active travel, suggestions on what the event should comprise of were being sought.

Members noted that Car Free Day fell on a school day and it would be difficult to encourage parents not to use cars during the morning school run, the event could include activities for children at the end of the school day. These could include chalk pavement selfies as suggested by officers and others from external providers.

The Windrush Bike Project may be able to offer guided cycle rides from and to Market Square and the 1863 bar at the Corn Exchange and other businesses might want to be involved. Safe cycle routes to and from school could also be added to the Council’s mobile phone App and promoted.  

RESOLVED:

1.       That the report be noted; and

2.       That as Car Free Day 2021 falls on a school day, that all activities aimed at children be scheduled for 14.00 – 17.00pm as they are leaving school; and,

3.       That the activities planned during the day could include cycle tours (routes to and from schools), guided cycle rides and chalk activities; and,

4.       That the Town Council takes the opportunity to promote no motor idling in Witney Town Centre and the Market Square.