Loveurcar (car sharing)

Share journeys across Colchester, apply for a free Loveurcar permit and find dedicated car share parking bays.

Air quality remains a challenge in parts of Colchester, including Brook Street, Mersea Road and the city centre, where Air Quality Management Areas are in place.

As part of its work to improve local air quality, Colchester City Council supports initiatives that encourage more sustainable travel choices.

Car sharing can help:

  • reduce the number of vehicles on the road
  • cut congestion
  • lower emissions
  • improve air quality across the city

Loveurcar connects people travelling on similar routes across Colchester, making it easier to share journeys, save money and reduce the environmental impact of driving.

Dedicated car share parking bays

Dedicated Loveurcar parking bays are available in several Colchester City Council car parks and at Colchester North Station.

The bays are located close to car park entrances and exits, making it easier for car sharers to access the city centre.

The following Council car parks have Loveurcar bays:

  • St John's Street Car Park: 2 bays
  • Vineyard Street Car Park: 4 bays
  • Britannia Car Park: 4 bays
  • St Mary's Car Park: 4 bays

The Loveurcar permit is free. Standard parking charges still apply.

Join the Loveurcar scheme

The Loveurcar scheme operates through MiPermit.

To join:

  1. Complete the Loveurcar application form.
  2. You will then be directed to MiPermit to validate your permit.
  3. Log in to your existing MiPermit account or create a new account.
  4. Once your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation email and can begin using the Loveurcar bays.

A Loveurcar windscreen sticker will also be sent to you. This helps other members and parking enforcement officers identify vehicles that are legitimately using the dedicated bays.

Stickers are usually issued within 10 working days of approval.

Using Loveurcar bays

When parking in a Loveurcar bay, pay for parking as normal using the MiPermit app or telephone service.

Use the following MiPermit location codes:

  • Britannia Car Park: 237821
  • Vineyard Street Car Park: 237823
  • St Mary's Car Park: 237834
  • St John's Street Car Park: 237835

You can add these locations to your favourites in the MiPermit app for quicker access.

Renew your permit

Loveurcar permits are valid for one year.

You will receive a reminder email when your permit is due for renewal.

Complete the Loveurcar renewal form to renew your permit.