Richmond upon Thames Council is set to repurpose disused car club bays across the borough, with potential new uses including cargo bike parking and e-bike/e-scooter bays.

Following Zipcar's withdrawal from the UK market, 58 car club bays are now vacant out of a total of 71 bays in Richmond. Some bays were already unoccupied prior to Zipcar's departure.

A street scene showing a bus stop, a cycle lane, and traffic on a road lined with trees.
A street scene showing a bus stop, a cycle lane, and traffic on a road lined with trees.

In response to the reduction in car club provision, the council is proposing to waive car club parking permit fees until April 2027. This measure aims to encourage other accredited operators to establish a presence in the borough. The council is also in discussions with accredited providers, and Zipcar has been instrumental in sharing information with other potential operators. Any accredited providers are welcome to contact council officers.

A final decision on whether car club bays can be retained for carpool operation will be made towards the end of summer 2026. If bays remain unoccupied or uncommitted by car clubs by this deadline, they will be repurposed. The decision on which bays are repurposed will be based on location and will follow consultation with ward councillors.

Map of London boroughs showing e-bike operator coverage and procurement status.
Map of London boroughs showing e-bike operator coverage and procurement status.

Potential alternative uses for these bays, identified in consultation with ward councillors, include cargo bike parking, e-bike/e-scooter bays, and bike hangars. Other options such as non-accredited car sharing schemes and EV charging points are also being considered. The council's approach to repurposing car club bays is intended to support active travel and provide alternatives to personal vehicle ownership, thereby promoting equitable access for residents, particularly those without personal vehicles.

The council's Transport and Air Quality Committee has been reviewing the car club developments, noting the benefits car clubs provide in reducing the need for private car ownership and encouraging more sustainable travel habits. The committee has delegated authority to the Executive Director of Growth and Place to take proposed actions to encourage occupation of car club bays by other operators and to repurpose any remaining bays.

Further details on the council's transport strategy can be found in the Transport Strategy to 2040.