SOUTH Ayrshire has been selected to pilot an electric vehicle project which will help vulnerable people in the area with their travels.

SP Energy Network has awarded the area £65,000 of funding from their Green Economy Fund to launch The Community Car Club. Its aim is to make vital transport to medical appointments, hospital visits and job interviews easier and much less expensive for disadvantaged locals.

The £20million economy fund was established earlier this year by the energy firm. It supports the ambitious green targets of the Scottish Government to boost local economic growth, improve air quality across the country and deliver a better future, quicker.

Chairperson of South Ayrshire Community Transport, Stuart Lindsay said: “Some of Ayr’s most vulnerable residents rely on us to provide vital transport and this funding has allowed us to make our ambitious plans for a Community Car Club a reality.

“With this support from the Green Energy Fund we’ll also be able to help to improve the area’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure as Ayrshire continues to increase its green credentials.”

Frank Mitchell, Chief Executive of SP Energy Networks, said: “South Ayrshire Community Transport is carrying out inspiring work to help expand the area’s green economy and support vulnerable residents. The Green Economy Fund will provide them with the financial boost required to make the Community Car Club a reality.”

John Scott, MSP for Ayr, said: “This is fantastic news which will benefit local people who might otherwise experience difficulties in meeting necessary appointments and at the same time help improve access to more sustainable car use within the community. I look forward to the Community Car Club getting up and running and to hearing of what I am sure will be its success over the coming months and years.”