Wellington Town Council has celebrated the first anniversary of the Wellington Cycle Delivery Scheme by purchasing a new e-cargo bike. The pilot scheme, which is run by 12 volunteers, was launched in September 2022 with the help of a loaned e-cargo bike from Shropshire Cycle Hub. The loan bike is now required back by its owner, so the decision by Wellington Town Council to purchase a replacement has been warmly welcomed by traders, customers, and the volunteer cyclists.
While they await the arrival of their new state-of-the-art ‘long-tailed’ Tern GSD, the volunteers will continue to operate the scheme using their own bikes. The success of the initiative is due to the support of Wellington Town Council, the traders who use and promote the service, the end customers who call or text the dedicated phone number, and Wellington Market Company, which has provided storage space since the pilot scheme began. Cllr Lee Carter commented, “Members of Wellington Town Council are delighted to support this initiative which is another tangible way of us trying to support businesses in the town. We’re continually amazed at the contribution of the volunteers.”
The scheme is also eco-friendly fitting with Wellington’s green agenda – which saw it recently be gaining accreditation as a ‘plastic free town’ – by encouraging shoppers to shop locally and leave their cars at home.
To take advantage of this free-of-charge service, simply call or text 07398 136120 on market days and provide your name and phone number. The service is available within a three-mile radius of the town centre, and the volunteers also collect unwanted items to donate to Wellington charity shops.
As the Wellington Cycle Delivery Scheme enters its second year, the community is encouraged to continue supporting this environmentally sustainable and convenient option.