Newcastle Car Club
First Formal Car Club Scheme in Tyne and Wear Launched in Newcastle
Newcastle City Council is the first Council in the North East to enter into a formal contract with a car club operator.
In February 2009, Newcastle City Council entered into a 7 year contract with Option C, for a car club operation across Newcastle, which help deliver benefits to residents and businesses as well as helping to reduce car ownership across the city.
The basic idea of a Car Club is that people can have access to a car in their city without having to own it. Members pay an annual fee to an operator who provides and maintains a number of vehicles. They then pay by the hour and mile for each trip that they undertake. The combined costs of membership and use are intended to be cheaper than personal car ownership and for car owners who do a low mileage.
Where does it operate?
Currently Option C operate in West Jesmond, however there are six proposed locations which will be made available in the coming months:
1. Dean Street Multi-storey Car Park
2. Quayside Car Park (Adjacent to Lloyds Quayside bar)
3. Leazes Park Road Car Park
4. Civic Centre Public Car Park
5. Archibold Terrace, South Jesmond
Who can take part?
Anyone can! Option C wants to target residents, businesses and students. Whoever you are, all you need to do is become a member by paying the membership fee of £25 and insurance deposits of £100 (paid in 5 monthly instalments) then you pay for the car as and when you need it.
If you are a business interested in utilising a car club please visit their website www.optionc.co.uk or download the leaflet giving businesses more information on how car clubs can benefit them.
For more information about the operation please contact Sally Herbert, Travel Plan Officer, Newcastle City Council on
Tel +44 (0)191 277 8973
