Colchester bike cargo business makes city greener

Colchester eCargo started out as a charity supported by Colchester Council and has turned into a small business, trying to make the city greener - one delivery at a time. 

Run by Lee Pugh, the fleet of bikes with two, three or four wheels has doubled since the start. 

Thanks to the demand for the service, Colchester eCargo was also able to create more jobs, with six employees now working at the company. 

Mr Pugh said: “We are trying to persuade more local businesses to make a change for a more sustainable alternative with our service.

Collaboration - Twisted Treats, a bakery in St Botolph's Street, has collaborated with the eCargo scheme (Image: eCargo)

“With the challenges of climate change, I think we are on the right path, trying to make a difference. 

“A lot of people think that small changes like this are not going to make a difference, but what I see and feel along with others who have the same approach is that small projects and activities can make a difference.” 

City centre problems such as poor air quality and congestion could be eased with the help of projects like this. 

Mr Pugh said: “The streets of the Dutch Quarter or New Town are not great for vans, so our cargo bikes could be a great alternative.” 

Colchester eCargo has now rolled out the Final Mile project, which aims to reach new customers and make residents aware of the alternatives available. 

The business offers a range of options, including express same-day or next-day deliveries to homes in Colchester, Wivenhoe, Copford and Great Horkesley. 

The bikes will travel anywhere within a 5.5-mile radius of the city to bring residents their shopping or fulfil deliveries. 

Mr Pugh and his team are hoping to expand even further over the coming years and eventually open a micro-distribution hub, working together with courier services like Evri. 

For more information on how to use the eCargo service, visit ecargobikecolchester.com or call 08000 614426