Good Going Week is being held across London and Merton, from 14 to 23 September, to address the problem of traffic congestion and polluting vehicle emissions.

Merton’s Road Safety and Transport Planning team is organising a range of lively local events involving commuters, local residents and school children, aimed at encouraging them to rethink their methods of travelling to and from work or school.

The week aims to make people realise that even small lifestyle changes can help make a difference – leaving the car at home just once a week and catching a bus or train, or walking to the local shop to buy the paper instead of driving.

Merton’s Launch of Good Going
9.30am, Wednesday 14 September – Merton Civic Centre, Morden
Merton’s Chief Executive, Mayor, Director of Environmental and Regeneration and Head of Regeneration will sign up to the travel awareness campaign.

Commuter Challenge
8.30am, Thursday 15 September – Various Locations
In order to test and hopefully prove how effective and speedy sustainable transport can be, participants will travel from South Wimbledon Tube, Raynes Park Station, Sutton Station and Mitcham Parkway to Merton Civic Centre by bike, bus, car, running, walking and tube, tram or train.

In Town Without My Car Day
10am – 3pm, Thursday 22 September – Merton Civic Centre, Morden
The Merton Civic Centre car park will be partially closed for events including a bike road show, street entertainment, health checks, a street café, exhibition of electric vehicles and information on sustainable transport.

Councillor Judy Saunders, Mayor of Merton, will also officially open a new City Car Club bay at 12noon. Council staff will use this car during the day and the public in the evenings and weekends.

The events will illustrate the link that exists between using sustainable transport and reducing traffic congestion, traffic-related illnesses, and noise and air pollution. They will also highlight the different travel choices, such as walking, cycling, bus, train or car sharing.

Linda Kirby, Merton’s Cabinet Member for Environmental Quality, said:

“Poor air quality and a large amount of unsustainable transport is one of the biggest issues facing London, and one where reform could make a real difference to the quality of life for residents.

“Reducing vehicle emissions would have a real impact on health and quality of life for everyone living, working or visiting Merton. Good Going Week aims to help people find ways to contribute to improving the air quality.”

Ends