Watford Council reveal sites for new eco-friendly car club

The scheme, a result of joint efforts by Watford Borough Council and Enterprise Car Club, is aimed at reducing carbon emissions and high costs of vehicle ownership.

The vehicles, all electric, will be stationed at accessible on-street spots across Watford, initially placed on Granville Road and Sutton Road, with Queens Road and Woodford Road to follow.

This green initiative adds to the council's 'Transforming Travel in Watford 2021-2041' strategy, aiming to improve the town's air quality.

Offering hourly or daily car hire, the scheme aims to provide a convenient cost-effective solution without the need for car ownership.

This is expected to decrease reliance on privately owned vehicles, a trend seen in car clubs nationwide.

To sign up for the eco-friendly car club, visit enterprisecarclub.co.uk/WATFORD20.

One of the new electric charge points (Image: Watford Borough Council)

Dan Gursel, managing director of Enterprise Car Club said: "We are delighted to work with Watford Council to launch this service.

"A car club is a great option to meet changing travel patterns for residents, businesses and visitors, as well as helping reduce dependence on private car ownership.

"Once someone has joined Enterprise Car Club, they have access to our complete network of around 1,300+ (vehicles in more than 220 towns, cities and communities across the UK.

"This means they can enjoy the convenience of shared mobility not only in Watford, but also when travelling elsewhere in the country. Members book and access the cars via an easy-to-use app.

"As well as having access to the fleet of car club vehicles, all members will be able to take advantage of Enterprise’s member benefits such as discounts on longer term rentals from Enterprise’s nationwide network of car rental branches."

Although presently limited, council plans include expanding the number of dedicated car club locations based on usage growth.

Further enhancements will include availing low-emission vehicles on local housing developments.

As an added incentive for new members, the club offers two years’ membership for £20 per year (usually £60 per year) including £20 free driving credit.

Hourly rates range from £8.93 to £11.59 depending on the user's plan.

Advantages extend beyond financial benefits, as members do not need to fret over vehicle maintenance, insurance, or parking permits.

As global efforts continue to combat climate change, such sustainable initiatives are highlighted as key to reducing carbon emissions and fostering eco-friendly communities.

Watford Council is also striving towards their goal of becoming a net zero-carbon town by 2030.

Councillor Ian Stotesbury, portfolio holder for Transport and Sustainability, said: "This is about providing choice and options to people across Watford.

"These cars provide a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to car ownership, and for many could provide lower costs and, for some, possibly remove the need to own a car.

"This could help to tackle parking, provide greener travel options and help with costs. We're looking forward to working with Enterprise to make this car club a success."

More information can be found at watford.gov.uk/sustainablewatford.