Cargo cycle share scheme comes to streets in Fitzrovia

Residents and business people in Fitzrovia will now find it easier to share an electrically-assisted cargo cycle, after Camden Council expanded the scheme from four to 12 hire locations across the borough.

There are two new hire locations within Fitzrovia, at Alfred Place and Cleveland Street. Under the self-service hire scheme, users have to register for and unlock the three-wheeled cycles using their smartphone.

Following its launch by social enterprise Peddle My Wheels Ltd in Camden in 2022, the OurBike scheme offers an eco-friendly mode of transport that is both affordable and convenient.

With the backing of Camden Council, the bikes have been used for school runs, transportation of recycling and rubbish, or for enjoyment, due to their spacious front box that can accommodate children or large items. And they help cut down on traffic congestion and pollution.

Councillor Adam Harrison, cabinet member for planning and a sustainable Camden, emphasises the convenience of the scheme:

“Thirty-five percent of our residences are within a five-minute walk of an OurBike. Bikes can be hired from £5 an hour and new users can try an OurBike for free for an additional hour, on top of the first complimentary hour, using the voucher code new-camden-pr when booking.”

The bikes are to be hired and then returned to the same place, with the opportunity for users to request a free training session.

Emma Hughes, head of business development at Peddle My Wheels, said of the increase in bikes:

“We’re proud to be supporting this local cargo bike revolution and look forward to seeing even more people choosing cleaner, cheaper, and more joyful ways to get around their borough.”

OurBikes in Camden is funded partly through the Cross River Partnership Healthy Streets Everyday project, and by the Mayor of London’s Air Quality Fund, which aims to address the issue of over-dependence on motor vehicles, and poor air quality across six London boroughs.

Each hire cycle is hosted by a local business or organisation which makes sure there is a fully-charged battery. At Alfred Place the host is the Building Centre and at Cleveland Street it’s the Fitzrovia Community Centre.

OurBike now operates more than 70 bikes in London and in rural areas across the UK.

To find out more go to OurBike and download the app to your smartphone.

Please support The Fitzrovia News. Consider helping us cover our costs by visiting our secure payment page.