The deadline for applications to the eCargo Bike Grant Fund Local Authority Scheme has now been extended until 27 March 2020 as councils show growing interest in using eCargo bikes as a means to cut emissions.

eCargo bikes are becoming an increasingly popular solution in urban environments

Opened on 1 April 2019, the eCargo Bike Grant Fund has a total value of £2m and is divided into two parts: one covering local authorities in England and the other open to limited companies, sole traders, partnerships, charities and not-for-profit organisations.

The deadline for grants for local authorities has now been extended until the end of March, giving councils longer to apply for up to £200k each, with a total of £1.2m available.

The money can be used to support up to 100% of the cost of ecargo bikes for local businesses, as well as to fund ecargo bikes for use within local authority fleets. It’s only available to local authorities implementing ecargo bikes in England – however, Scottish and Welsh authorities can apply if they meet this criteria.

Tim Anderson, head of transport at Energy Saving Trust (EST) – which is administering the scheme on behalf of the Department for Transport, said: “There has been considerable interest from local authorities in the eCargo Bike Grant Fund. A recent webinar supporting applications to the fund was oversubscribed and it became clear there is significant demand.”

He added: “We welcome a broad range of submissions exploring the implementation of ecargo bikes as a low carbon transport solution. eCargo bikes are becoming increasingly prevalent, offering significant benefits which include fuel cost savings and improving air quality in our towns and cities.”

Applications will be assesed by the EST once the deadline closes on 27 March 2020, with grant letters to be sent by the end of May 2020. Local authorities will then have six months from then to draw-down the funding.

For further details, including application forms, click here.