Welsh e-bike schemes receive extended funding

Two e-bike schemes in Wales have received extended funding after successfully encouraging locals to swap their drive for a cycle. 

Ran by Sustrans and Pedal Power, the latter’s ‘See Cycling Differently’ project offers a range of e-cycles aimed at increasing cycling’s inclusivity, it has reported an increase in regular cyclers and has seen many people taking up the e-cycle tasters.

Deputy Minister for Climate Change Lee Waters said: ‘I am delighted that these Welsh Government funded schemes have been a great success. 

‘Cycling isn’t just better for the environment, it’s much cheaper than running a car and great for your mental and physical health too – as a regular cyclist myself, I know this is true. You should give it a try!’ He added. 

Sustrans’ scheme sees the charity offer a range of e-bikes on a free medium-term loan to locals who may not be able to afford the tech. 

The scheme operates in Rhyl, Swansea, Newtown, Aberystwyth and Barry and has so far seen users report a 39% drop in car journeys and save an estimated 600kg of CO2. 

Programme Manager Liz Rees said: ‘Since 2021, the E-Move project has helped people in five disadvantaged communities across Wales to access and borrow e-bikes for free. 

‘This has meant people with poor public transport links, lack of access to cars, and age and health conditions have been able to travel and access green spaces. 70% of participants reported a positive impact on their health, and 76% a positive impact on their wellbeing.’ 

Local businesses have also benefited from the chance to use the bikes and the charity hopes to create legacy agreements that will see ownership of the bikes transferred to local communities upon the end of the scheme. 

E-bike tech has become a popular way of encouraging people to become more active and save on emissions as councils and businesses look to support government net-zero targets. Cheshire West and Chester is one of the councils that has utilised the electronic vehicles as part of its fleet recently.