Pay-as-you-go driving
Enterprise Car Club provides pay-as-you-go cars and vans in Colchester. You can book online, in the app or by phone. You pay by the hour and mile. Insurance, tax, fuel or charging and maintenance are included.
Find out more about Enterprise Car Club in Colchester.
Electric cars are available from Sheepen Road, Priory Street and St Peter’s Street. A van is available at the Enterprise depot on Gosbecks Road.
CAReless Pollution
Idling is leaving your engine running while your vehicle is stationary. It creates unnecessary air pollution. Switch off your engine when you are stopped.
Find information and resources on Clean Air Colchester.
Car sharing
Car sharing can reduce traffic and save money. You can use Liftshare to estimate your savings and find car share partners.
Use the Liftshare savings calculator.
You can also watch the car sharing film and read the car share film transcript.
Ways to find someone to car share with:
- Speak to colleagues at work.
- Speak to neighbours who live near you.
- Join Liftshare.
Dedicated car share parking spaces are available in some city centre car parks. You can find out more and apply for a permit on the Loveurcar page.
Staying safe when car sharing
- Do not share your full name or home address until you have met the other person and are comfortable with the arrangements. For your first trip, meet in a public place.
- Tell a friend or family member who you are travelling with, when you are travelling and where you are going.
- Ask to see documents such as a driving licence, insurance, MOT and proof of identity before you agree to share.
- Use GOV.UK to check a driving licence record: View or share your driving licence information. You can check a vehicle’s tax and MOT using the vehicle enquiry service.
- You are responsible for your own safety. If you are not comfortable, do not travel.
Car sharing usually does not affect insurance if you are not making a profit. If you are unsure, check with your insurer.
EVs
Switching to an EV reduces emissions from road transport, although short journeys should still be made by walking or cycling where possible.
There are several electric vehicle charge points around Colchester where you can charge your electric vehicle. These can be viewed on ZapMap.
Find more about electric vehicles including government grant funding for charge points and general advice when considering buying an electric vehicle.
There is also a local Facebook group called the Colchester Electric Vehicle Society where members discuss everything electric vehicle related in Colchester.
Eco driving
Driving efficiently can reduce fuel costs and emissions.
Tips for eco driving:
- Remove roof racks when you are not using them.
- Check your tyre pressure regularly.
- Drive smoothly and avoid harsh braking.
- Stick to speed limits where safe and appropriate.
- Do not idle to warm up the engine. Set off when you are ready to go.
Park and Ride
Colchester Park and Ride is located off junction 28 on the A12. It provides a frequent service into the city centre.
Stops include Colchester Hospital, Colchester North Station and Middleborough (for The Octagon). Find route maps and ticket prices on the Essex Highways Park and Ride page.
Car parks
If you are driving into Colchester, consider parking outside the city centre. This can help reduce congestion. You may be able to save money using the Park Active scheme.