With funding from the Greener Together Net Zero Fund and support from local bike manufacturer Estarli, London Colney Parish Council introduced a cargo e-bike into daily operations to reduce vehicle dependency, lower emissions, and build community partnerships. Since February 2025, the e-bike has proven to be a highly effective and flexible tool for carrying out practical council duties – while also strengthening ties with local businesses, groups, and residents.
The Parish Council utilised the new e-cargo bike to support local environmental initiatives. The bike’s large rear cargo box made it possible to transport:
- Saplings and tree stakes
- Shovels, trowels, and other planting tools
- Bags of sand and soil needed to set a wildlife pond
- Safety gear and signage
Using the bike, council staff were able to travel door-to-door – from the parish depot to the planting site – without the need to park or idle.
Promoting Active Travel & Clean Air at Local Schools
The bike has been being showcased at the start and end of the school day, supporting wider school campaigns and engagement events focused on clean air and active lifestyles.
Activities include:
- Parking the e-cargo bike at school gates during drop-off and pick-up times to demonstrate a practical, zero-emissions alternative to driving.
- Collaborating with school staff to design and promote anti-idling messaging and Clean Air Day awareness activities.
- Engaging children in conversations about air quality, travel habits, and how active choices impact their health and the environment.
- Promoting the upcoming family loan scheme, encouraging parents to trial the bike for their own school runs.
Using the E-Cargo Bike for Tree Planting & Pond Creation
The Parish Council utilised the new e-cargo bike to support these environmental initiatives. The bike’s large rear cargo box made it possible to transport:
- Saplings and tree stakes
- Shovels, trowels, and other planting tools
- Bags of sand and soil needed to set a wildlife pond
- Safety gear and signage
Using the bike, council staff were able to travel door-to-door – from the parish depot to the planting site – without the need to park or idle. The e-bike’s versatility allowed it to navigate footpaths, parks, and field access points with ease.
Impact
Environmental Gains: Zero-emission travel directly replaced what would have been multiple short van trips. Over 60 miles have been logged to date across operations, with at least 30kg of CO₂ saved so far.
Quote from Project Lead – Matt Fisher, Environment Officer London Colney Parish Council:
“This project is a brilliant example of how practical, visible tools like an e-cargo bike can deliver real environmental change while making our work more efficient and engaging. It’s about more than just transport – it’s a platform for behaviour change, leadership, and local pride.”