LIB DEMS DEMAND URGENT ACTION TO PROTECT CAR CLUBS IN LAMBETH

The Liberal Democrats have written to Cllr Holland urging Lambeth Council to follow neighbouring Southwark, which has offered Zipcar free parking permits to encourage the company to continue operating locally.

Zipcar announced in December 2025 that it would take no more UK bookings after 31 December, with a final withdrawal date subject to formal consultation with employees.

Car clubs play a vital role in boroughs like Lambeth, where 51% of people do not have access to a private car. They support residents and small businesses who need only occasional access to a vehicle, while helping to reduce congestion and air pollution.

Cllr Donna Harris, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group in Lambeth, said, “With so many households in our borough not owning a car, car clubs are essential for those journeys that can’t be made on public transport. They also help to reduce congestion, improve air quality, and meet climate goals.”

The Liberal Democrats are calling on Lambeth Council urgently to consider offering free or reduced parking permits for car club vehicles, and to engage proactively with other operators to safeguard provision in the borough. They are also urging Lambeth to work with other London councils, the Mayor of London, and Transport for London on a coordinated, London-wide approach to supporting car club provision, whether commercial or community-based.

Cllr Donna Harris added:

“Lambeth should act to protect car club provision. We are asking the Council Leader to take urgent steps to keep Zipcar and to attract other providers, so residents are not forced back into private car ownership and our progress on cleaner, greener streets is not undermined.”