11 Jun 2025
London Colney Parish Council is proving that real climate action can be local, visible, and powered by pedals.
With the introduction of an Estarli e-cargo bike into its operations, the council has reimagined how it delivers public services, from planting trees to cleaning up litter and engaging with schoolchildren on clean air. The result? A greener, more efficient, and more connected community.
The e-cargo bike, designed and built by Berkhamsted-based manufacturer Estarli and funded through the Greener Together initiative, has replaced the need for diesel vans in many day-to-day tasks. Whether it’s transporting tools for conservation work or collecting recycling from local hubs,
the bike has allowed council staff to carry out their roles more swiftly, sustainably, and visibly.
LCPC environment officer, SADC and HCC Green councillor Matt Fisher said: “The thing that’s overwhelming is how easy stuff is to do, and how quick it is… doing this stuff in a van is just ridiculous.
At the Walsingham Way Rewilding Project, the bike was loaded with saplings, soil, sand, tools, and signage – navigating grassy footpaths and uneven ground with ease and allowing staff to reach hard-to-access sites without needing to park or idle a van nearby.
At the same time, the e-cargo bike became a centrepiece of the council’s clean air campaign at local schools. Stationed at school gates and integrated into environmental lessons, the bike helped children and parents see a tangible, joyful alternative to short car journeys.
Matt said: “The cargo bike has made sustainability tangible – something children, parents, and staff can see, touch, and try for themselves. It’s leadership on wheels, and the school gate is the perfect starting line.”
With newly expanded responsibilities, he sees the project as part of a bigger picture: “ It’s about more than just transport – it’s a platform for behaviour change, leadership, and local pride.”
Soon, the bike will be available for families to loan for the school run – giving them a chance to experience active travel in real life. For more information, contact the team via environment@londoncolney-pc.gov.uk.
