A new scheme set up by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council could allow motorists to hire out a car on a pay-as-you-go basis.

The Public Access Car Club will be piloted for 12-months as part of efforts to improve air quality and reduce ownership.

Two vehicles will be available for use in the town centre giving people the opportunity to access one when they need it - without the burden of ownership costs.

The scheme will cost the council £7,500 and it will use money contributions known as Section 106 funds.

Anyone who registers can use the two five-door, 1.1L, Toyota Aygos that will be parked in allocated bays in Mount Pleasant Road.

They can be used for private and/or business purposes and motorists will typically pay a one-off membership and an hourly or mileage rate.

Corporate users will be charged a one-off membership fee of £12, and all others will pay £25.

“Club members will be able to book fuel efficient vehicles for use from as little as 30 minutes” - Tunbridge Wells Borough Council spokesman

The council has revealed that the cars will cost £3.75 per hour and £17.50 per day.

Councillor Paul Barrington-King, cabinet member with responsibility for sustainability said: "We’ll be the first borough authority in the county to offer this kind of car club and I’m delighted to be leading the way at no cost to the Council Tax payer.

"For people who want to avoid the commitment and expense of owning a car when they would get little use from it, this is the solution.

"A car club plays a role in offering alternative travel choices, typically car club members’ overall car use decreases whilst their use of alternative modes of walking, cycling and public transport increases which helps to reduce traffic.

"Businesses can become car club members too for staff who need to make occasional journeys.

‘We’ve chosen to trial the project with a social enterprise company, Co-wheels, who will invest any profit back into the scheme.

The cars are operated using a smart card with on-board systems that record trip times and distance.

A fuel card is provided to users and they can book the car online or over the phone and use their smart card to unlock the vehicle.

An evaluation of the pilot will be undertaken after six months and if demand is high, the profits created will be used to buy a third vehicle.

The proposal will be considered by the overview and scrutiny committee.