Residents encouraged to join in the fun on World Car Free Day with street parties and Play Streets

15 August 2024

To celebrate World Car Free Day 2024, Southwark Council is offering residents the opportunity to reclaim their streets by hosting a street party or play street.

World Car Free Day is celebrated worldwide annually on 22 September and aims to bring communities together, create safer spaces for children to play, and reduce reliance on cars.

The scheme also aligns with the council’s ambitious Streets for People strategy which focuses on improving air quality in Southwark.

Play Streets are resident organised events where neighbours agree together, and with the council, to close their street temporarily to through traffic.

Applications for street closures for street parties or a Play Street between Friday 20 and Sunday 22 September are now open. Residents are encouraged to apply early to ensure all arrangements can be made in good time. Applicants will need to inform their neighbours and apply to the council by 4 September. More details can be found at Car Free Day 2024 - Southwark Council.

Over the celebratory weekend, with council permission, roads can be closed between 10:00am and 6:00 pm for a street party, and Play Streets can be held for three hours at times to suit each street, between 10:00am and 6:00pm.

Councillor James McAsh, Cabinet Member for Clean Air, Streets & Waste, said: “Car Free Day is a wonderful chance for residents to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily traffic and enjoy their streets as vibrant, communal spaces. It’s an opportunity to connect with neighbours, promote active play for children, and highlight the benefits of reducing car use for both our environment and our health. We encourage everyone to get involved and make the most of this day.

“The scheme ties in nicely with our work to promote air quality and sustainable transport options. We’re creating more opportunities to walk and cycle; improving greener routes to schools, and investing in our community spaces.”

London Play is a registered charity that supports the implementation of Play Streets. Their website explains procedures and further resources they can provide.

For more information on how to apply to arrange a street party and Play Streets please visit the council’s website.

Page last updated: 15 August 2024