Electric bikes will deliver your goods

A Cross River Partnership (CRP), a non-profit firm and Westminster City council have started a six-month trial in Pimlico to support zero-emission last-mile deliveries in Westminster.

The project is part of the Defra-funded Clean Air Logistics for London (CALL) programme, which aims to move more freight into London via river rather than road.

Online purchases will be delivered by electric cargo bikes to Q-Park Pimlico parking facility and distributed to buyers.

Micro logistics hubs are small, secure spaces that couriers and operators can use to receive, sort, and send deliveries.

The Q-Park Pimlico in Cumberland Street has security fencing, entrance gates, and the necessary electrics installed to allow the secure park and charge of e-cargo bikes.

The bikes will deliver around 2,000 parcels a day from the hub to residents and businesses.

Delivery Mates is the company appointed to run the hub.

Councillor Paul Dimoldenberg, cabinet member for city management and air quality, said: “Westminster has some of the worst air quality in London and making improvements to reduce pollution and emissions is a key priority for us. We’re taking steps to reduce petrol or diesel car travelwhere we can, and this new micro-logistics hub operating has an important part to play in this by promoting healthy, greener and more efficient deliveries in our city.”

Kevin Savage, chief operating officer at Delivery Mates said: “Opening a Micro Logistics Hub in Pimlico will strengthen Delivery Mates capability to deliver sustainable logistics to customers, residents and retailers.”

Adam Bidder, managing director of Q-Park UK, said: “We are delighted for our latest scheme with Infinium Logistics and Westminster council is being launched.”

Picture: Cross River Partnership