ELECTRIC cargo bikes have hit the streets of Stratford this week as the as the scheme is officially launched.
Stratford District Council (SDC) E-Cargo Bike scheme is aimed at encouraging businesses, organisations, community and voluntary groups across Stratford to use electric bikes instead of cars and vans for local deliveries.
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.
SDC climate change spokesman Ian Shenton said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses and organisations to sign up to test the scheme out and see if it suits their needs.
“I really hope that seeing the E-Cargo bikes in use will encourage other businesses and organisations across the District, to give one a go helping Stratford become greener and contribute to South Warwickshire’s Climate Change Ambitions.”
A number of Local business have already signed up to the free-trial scheme, including the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust and the Alscot Estate.
Andrew Anderson, environmental health and safety officer at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust said: “We’re pleased to be one of the first organisations in Stratford-upon-Avon to participate in the Council’s E-Cargo Bike scheme.
“This fantastic initiative is a great way of reducing our reliance on vans to transport goods between our historic sites, and meets our ambition to operate sustainably and becoming carbon net zero in our own emissions by 2030.”
Following this launch, a series of roadshows will also be taking place across the District to encourage other local businesses to take up the scheme.
