ELECTRIC cargo bikes will be hitting the streets of Stratford in a bid to reduce commercial traffic and help fight climate change.
Stratford District Council (SDC) has secured government funding to purchase ten eCargo bikes from Stratford-based supplier Pashley Cycles.
Along with Pashley and Stratford Bike Hire, a trial scheme will be set up to allow organisations to test the benefits of eCargo bikes without making a financial commitment.
The goal to raise awareness and encourage companies to replace the use of cars and vans, particularly in the ‘last mile’ – the final stage of a delivery.
It is also a way to tackle the climate emergency and move towards net zero carbon as well as reduce congestion and carbon emissions and improve air quality.
It is expected to launch in spring.
The council will match the £60,000 government grant over a five year period to cover maintenance costs, servicing, repairs and induction training. This funding is being sourced from the council’s Climate Change Panel funds.
SDC climate change spokesman Ian Shenton said: “I’m delighted the eCargo bikes will soon be coming to the streets of our towns. Not only will this support our local businesses, but will also play a part in tackling air quality and climate change. Whilst we know there is so much we need to do to meet our climate change ambitions, it is through practical projects like this one that, step by step, we can start to make a real difference.”
A spokesperson for Pashley Cycles said: “We are delighted to be able to support Stratford District Council with 10 locally built eCargo bikes. We are receiving a huge increase in enquiries for this type of product as consumers and businesses look for alternative ways of moving goods in an urban environment. Pashley have a wealth of experience in this category as we have been designing, developing and manufacturing delivery bikes in the Midlands since 1926.”
