Newtown is set to embrace a new wave of sustainable transportation options through the E-Move project.

This electric cycle loan scheme, funded by the Welsh Government, aims to provide affordable and eco-friendly travel solutions to the residents of Newtown and its surrounding areas.

Recognising that the cost of e-bikes can be a significant barrier to their adoption, the E-Move pilot scheme, ran by Sustrans, offers individuals in Newtown a four-week loan of an e-bike, free of charge. With 20 e-bikes available in Newtown alone, the project seeks to make electric cycling accessible to all.

In addition to e-bikes, the E-Move project also extends its support to businesses and organizations in Aberystwyth, Swansea, and Newtown by offering electric cargo bikes for up to three months. These cargo bikes present an excellent opportunity for local businesses to reduce their carbon footprint while delivering goods efficiently and conveniently.

By encouraging individuals and businesses to replace car trips with e-bike and e-cargo bike journeys, E-Move aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions in the area. The project also seeks to enhance local air quality, providing a healthier and cleaner environment for all residents.

E-bikes are not only an environmentally friendly option but also offer a range of benefits to users. With the ability to reach speeds of up to 15.5 mph, these electric-powered cycles make tackling hilly terrain a breeze while enabling users to carry loads and embark on longer cycling trips.

E-Move's collection of e-bikes in Newtown is equipped with panniers, stowage trays, and seats suitable for children of various ages, ensuring that active travel becomes a fun and family-friendly experience.

If you reside in Newtown or its surrounding areas and are interested in loaning an e-bike, E-Move invites you to participate in the scheme. Additionally, businesses and organizations in Swansea and Aberystwyth are eligible to apply for an e-cargo bike loan. Participants will be required to complete a survey before and after the loan period, providing valuable insights into their experiences with e-bikes. This data will contribute to the development of recommendations for future e-bike initiatives.

To be eligible for the loan scheme, individuals must be over 18 years of age, able to cycle safely, and either live in an area listed in the Welsh Index of Multiple Deprivation as one of the 10-50% most deprived wards in Wales, reside in a rural place near an E-Move location with the intention of replacing car trips, or live in a hilly location near an E-Move location with the same intention.

For individuals looking to loan an e-bike or seeking more information please contact Jack Neighbour - [email protected] or 07876234112.