Primary School pupils will be taking the lead on opening up their street for people – not cars – and helping to create a vibrant community space as Car Free Day returns for 2025.
Earle Road, between Webster Road and Cranborne Road, will be the centre of a celebration of active travel, cleaner air, and healthier living on Monday 22nd September, from 8am to 6:00pm.
The event, organised by Liverpool City Council and Culture Liverpool, will centre around St Hugh’s Primary School, whose pupils will be actively involved throughout the day.
Car Free Day aims to promote active travel, healthier lifestyles, and cleaner air by temporarily closing roads to motor vehicles and opening them up for community activities.
Culture Liverpool will be curating a range of fun, family-friendly events within the closure zone, encouraging walking, cycling, and play. Merseyside Cycle Campaign (MCC) and Liverpool City Council teams will contribute to the day’s programme.
This will include fun activities like a smoothie bike challenge – create your own smoothie by pedalling!
Dr Bike will also be on hand to help with bike maintenance and safety checks, and there will also be arts and craft workshops. Events will run 10am – 4pm.
While Car Free Days have sparked debate in recent years, particularly around their impact on traffic and accessibility, Liverpool City Council recognises these concerns and is committed to listening to residents.
This year’s location was carefully chosen not only for its proximity to a supportive school community but also because it aligns with a proposed Active Travel Scheme in the area.
The Council plan to introduce a modal filter at the junction of Tunstall Street and Earle Road, and the temporary closure will allow for valuable monitoring of traffic flows to assess the potential impact of the permanent scheme. Residents and businesses affected by the closure have been contacted directly, and alternative arrangements made to minimise inconvenience.
Councillor Dan Barrington, Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity, said: ““We understand that road closures can be disruptive, and we’re working closely with local stakeholders to ensure this event is both inclusive and informative.
“Car Free Day is not just about reducing traffic for one day – it’s about reimagining our streets as places for people, not just vehicles. “I encourage everyone to come along, take part in the activities, and share their views on how Liverpool can continue to evolve into a more sustainable and people-friendly city.”