Free parking permits to incentivise car club providers

This follows car-sharing company Zipcar’s announcement that it is considering ending operations in the UK. The council is stepping up to encourage car-sharing providers to remain in the borough and to encourage new car sharing providers to locate in Wandsworth.

Expanding provision of car clubs is a key action within our ambitious Walking and Cycling Strategy as research demonstrates that car clubs reduce reliance on private car ownership and encourage walking, cycling and use of public transport.

Jenny Yates, Cabinet Member for Transport, said:

“We’re committed to keeping Wandsworth moving in a sustainable way. By waiving parking permit fees for car club operators, we’re taking action to keep and increase providers in the borough so that residents can benefit from accessible, affordable, and greener travel options.”

Research from the 2024 Car Club Annual Report for London undertaken by CoMoUK found that each car club vehicle resulted in an average of 27 fewer private vehicles on the road through a combination of vehicles being sold and purchases being deferred. Car clubs are a key part of the planning process for larger residential developments, ensuing that residents can settle in their new homes without the need to own a private car.

The parking permit freeze will initially be until April 2027, with a review to follow.