A PAY-as-you-go scheme for electric cars has been launched by Colchester Council as the authority looks to secure a greener future.

Alongside Enterprise Car Club, Colchester Council has launched the service where two Kia Nero electric vehicles will be parked at a bay in Priory Street car park and can be hired on an hourly basis.

Now, drivers are being encouraged to sign up to the scheme to encourage attempts to tackle the climate emergency and improve air quality across the borough.

Both councillor Steph Nissen, the council’s portfolio holder for environment and sustainability, and Tim Young, mayor of Colchester, have visited Priory Street car park to see what the cars could bring to Colchester.

Ms Nissen, also a Green Party councillor, explained the new initiative brought convenience and action on climate change.

She said: “The car club provides a cleaner and greener way to travel and forms part of a range of shared transport options, including the Tier scooters and the pay as you go bike hub, which will also be launched soon.

“The council is committed to meeting its climate emergency targets and helping residents struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, for whom the car club can provide a more affordable alternative to car ownership."