The Energy Saving Trust has announced the Department for Transport has made £2 million funding available for the acquisition of ecargo bikes, to support green last mile deliveries. This funding is available to limited companies, sole traders, partnerships, charities and not-for-profit organisations operating in England. Public, community or third sector organisations are also eligible providing they meet the eligibility criteria.
The eCargo bike fund, which local businesses can use to pay for up to 100% of the cost of purchasing Ecargo bikes, is going to be awarded through Local Authorities and the Norfolk County Council are pleased to announce that they are proposing to put in an application with local businesses in late March.
Ecargo bikes allow businesses to benefit from:
- Better and often quicker access around the city being able to use bus lanes, cycle paths and Pedestrian and Cycle Zones such as Gentlemen’s Walk at all times
- Reduced fuel costs
- Zero emission transport, showcasing a modern and clean presence in the city and creating a healthier workforce
- Needing less kerb space to make deliveries and collections
The Ecargo bikes that are eligible:
- Can have any number of wheels
- Must meet the Electrically Assisted Pedal cycles (EAPCs) criteria
- Have at least 125 litre cargo volume
- Have at least 130kg minimum weight capacity (weight of rider plus luggage)
The Norfolk County Council have opened a survey to gather expressions of interest from local businesses to see how this fund can be utilised. This might take the form of
- Try before you buy scheme
- Leasing scheme
- Shared pool
- Ownership
Register your interest by completing this brief survey.
The survey will be open from 17 to 28 February 2020 with responses collated and replied to in early March. Norfolk County Council will submit the grant application in time for 27 March.
More details of the fund can be found on the Energy Saving Trust website.
