Edinburgh to host a ‘car-free day’

EDINBURGH’S Waverley Bridge is to be turned into “an inclusive community hub of information, inspiration and activity encouraging people to consider alternatives to car travel” – on Sunday October 2.

The initiative is part of a city council-led ‘car-free day’, with Edinburgh joining an estimated 2,000 other cities around the world, undertaking a similar exercise.

Edinburgh’s car-free day was due to take place today, but was postponed by a few days – as a mark of respect following the recent death of her late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

Says the council, in an announcement, here: “The council has set an ambitious target to reduce distances travelled by car in Edinburgh by 30 per cent over the next decade, as well as achieving Net Zero status by 2030.

“With transport being one of the biggest carbon emission contributors, Edinburgh’s World Car Free Day event will encourage people to consider more sustainable modes of transport for their everyday journeys.

“It will raise awareness of the the options available across the city, promote the health and wellbeing benefits of active travel and offer the essential information and support people need to commit to long-term change.”

Pictured: Waverley Bridge, during the Covid-19 lockdown, Picture credit: Place Design Scotland