Introduction

WhizzGo is a pioneering UK company, dedicated to providing a workable alternative to car ownership that is both socially and environmentally advantageous.

Objectives and target audience

WhizzGo was implemented to support the objectives of the Greater Manchester LTP regarding the delivery of modal shift and reducing congestion. This can be achieved by allowing car club members to give up their own private car thus reducing parking pressures and encouraging more walking, cycling and use of public transport. The target audience is a combination of city centre residents and workers together with business owners, developers and private land-owners.

Financial Resources and Partners involved

Manchester City Council has provided in-kind support to WhizzGo through the provision of on-street parking spaces and the facilitation of discussions with developers and other stakeholders to support growth. Small financial resources through the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund funding have been made available to facilitate, for example, street signage where appropriate.

Process

A feasibility study was undertaken and a comparative tender process was instigated. Once the preferred operator was selected, a joint steering group was established to monitor progress. On-street parking bay locations were agreed and set aside. The operator undertook an intense marketing and promotional campaign with assistance from the local authority. The operator was encouraged to deliver off-street parking through negotiation with developers and land owners. The above procedures have created a close, dynamic working relationship.

Results

Manchester has recorded the most successful first year after launch in the whole of the UK. Over 500 registered members from a combination of both residential and business membership. Manchester is the third most successful city to date behind London and Leeds, which have both been involved with the scheme for a number of years. Twenty-four cars now operate in the city centre and expansion is planned to expand the scheme outside of the city centre.
The scheme has shown its effectiveness as an environmentally sustainable service, reducing pollution and congestion by: using cars which are chosen for their low emissions, reducing the amount of time drivers spend behind the wheel, and exploring alternative technologies to keep emissions low, such as sustainably-sourced biofuels, petrol/electric hybrids, and stop-start technology.

Critical Success Factors / Challenges

The key issues for success are partnership working, great communication links and a structured process from the start to present. An effective marketing and promotional campaign was, and still is, key. Selecting the correct locations was also a vital component of the process as the development of a competitive pricing structure.
This scheme already works well in a number of cities. However, it is important that the lessons learned from the close working relationship between the operator and the local authority are applied to other current and future locations.