Saturday, 20 September 2025
POD – Shared Transport:
Driving a Greener Future
POD is the Calder Valley's first community-run car share, launched in February 2025. Backed by over £27,000 in community shares (we are a community benefit society), we've already put three hybrid cars into service in Hebden Bridge and one in Todmorden - with a second Todmorden car on its way very soon. Users can book, unlock and lock the cars by the hour or up to three weeks using the POD app - all done on a smartphone.
An early-rising POD user catching the sunrise …..
But car sharing is about more than convenience - it's about cutting carbon and creating less car-dominated towns and villages. Each shared car can replace approximately 17 owned vehicles, reducing congestion, freeing up space, and lowering emissions. POD's impact is already visible: we have grown to over 60 users, with some giving up car ownership altogether and others deciding against buying a replacement car after joining us. Every one of these choices means fewer cars on our roads and a greener Calder Valley.
We're making sure POD works for everyone. We have cars with child seats and cycle racks, so families and cyclists can easily get where they need to go. We've also applied for grant funding to make one vehicle adaptable with hand-controlled pedals, helping disabled drivers benefit from car sharing too.
The message is clear and positive: POD is growing, demand is spreading, and the enthusiasm from our community has been inspiring. With every new user and every shared journey, we're proving that a practical, affordable, and environmentally friendly alternative to car ownership is possible, not just in big cities but right here in the Calder Valley.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us so far!
To learn more or to become a POD user, please visit pod-caldervalley.co.uk or email manager@pod-caldervalley.co.uk.