‘Pollution busting’ cargo-bike scheme launches in Square Mile

Image: City of London Corporation

Image: City of London Corporation

A new cargo-bike delivery scheme has launched in the City of London to help businesses tackle toxic air pollution by reducing the need for diesel vans.

Following a successful pilot during the Christmas season, the service is now available to local businesses in the Smithfield and Farringdon areas with deliveries anywhere within the Congestion Charge zone.

‘Highly trained’ professional courier riders are using electric-assist cargo bikes or electric-assist trikes – with load capacities of 100kg and 250kg respectively – to make deliveries.

The scheme is part of the City of London Corporation’s plans for a Low Emission Neighbourhood (LEN), jointly funded by the Mayor of London and the Corporation

The LEN also includes plans for new electric vehicle charging infrastructure, green taxi ranks and planting and growing initiatives around Barbican and Golden Lane Estate areas.

Jeremy Simons, chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Environment Committee, said:

“This new (cargo bike) service marks a significant milestone in the introduction of the City’s LEN.

“It is part of our wider plan to help reduce emissions and improve air quality in the Square Mile.

“The service will provide local business with an eco-friendly way to move their goods around and reduce air pollution for local residents and workers.”

The cargo bike scheme is run in partnership with Zedify, a new zero emissions delivery operator formed by the established cargo bike delivery companies Recharge Cargo and Outspoken Delivery.

Sam Keam, director of Recharge Cargo said:

“We are looking forward to expanding the operation in the coming months to provide zero-emission services that help to address the critical issues of congestion, air pollution and quality of life for Londoners.”


12 January 2018