Kingston could follow in the footsteps of Brixton and Bristol – and nearly a dozen regions in Germany – by creating its own currency.
The Kingston Pound project aims to promote diversity and independence in high streets and shopping parades throughout the borough.
Volunteers have to secure the backing of businesses and work out technicalities, such as whether to make the system electronic or paper-based.
Work started last November, and volunteers said implementation could take three years.
Project leader Andrew Connolly said: “At the moment we are just in the process of talking to people – we are putting together questionnaires.
“We have got some really enthusiastic people working here and the response so far has been pretty positive.
“This next year is all about awareness.”
The scheme is a joint effort with credit union SurreySave.
SurreySave CEO Michelle Boundy, part of the project team, said: “These things take quite some time to put into place.
“You need a certain amount of capital up front.
“You have got to talk to a number of different people who are willing to give their time.
“It has to be really easy for people to use – it has to be as convenient as possible.”
If the scheme goes ahead, credit union savers could choose to convert some of their savings into Kingston Pounds.
Do you think the Kingston Pound is a good idea? Leave a comment below, or email: jon.sharman@london.newsquest.co.uk.
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