An e-cargo bike service has been launched in Chiswick, London to support local businesses by offering a zero-carbon delivery option.
The trial, run by Hounslow Council and Sustrans in partnership with London Bike Hub and Chiswick retailer app Our High Road, is looking to reduce the number of short private-car journeys and assist the recovery of the high street following Covid-19.
A pilot of the service was launched in September covering the Chiswick Flower Market. According to the council, the service was a great success, with 40 deliveries covering nearly 70 miles and saving 30kg of CO2.
The trial will now be expanded to focus on businesses in and around the Chiswick area, delivering within a 2.5-mile radius. The service will be free to businesses during the trial period with a courier going to local business premises to collect items before delivering them in the local area. Hot and perishable foods will not be allowed.
Initially, deliveries will occur twice weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays, between 4:30pm and 7.30pm. This may be extended to cover longer delivery times if demand increases.
Councillor Hanif Khan, cabinet member for transport at Hounslow Council, said: “To make our streets cleaner, healthier and safer for pedestrians and cyclists, we need to reduce the number of car trips being made and allow people space to socially distance while they shop.
“Using cargo bikes to do local deliveries is a great idea and offers local people great convenience when they are walking or cycling to the High Road. We would encourage local businesses to take advantage of this great new free service, especially in the run up to Christmas.”
