An ESSEX community project boosted with an £1million investment is celebrating its 100th bicycle giveaway to residents in need.

As of October 100 bicycles have been donated to the residents of Greenstead as part of the Essex Pedal Power's scheme in Colchester.

The Essex Pedal Power scheme (EPP), run by Active Essex in cooperation with Essex Council, is a programme aiming to help the residents of disadvantaged communities by providing them with free bikes.

It’s a programme with many benefits, not only does it give residents a free mode of transport, but it can also help improve their physical and mental health as cycling is a form of exercise.

Gazette: Donation - Left to right: Nik Hughes (EPP Project Coordinator for Colchester), Emma Woolf (EPP bike recipient and project Volunteer), Vicky James (EPP bike recipient and project volunteer), Cllr Natalie Sommers, and Julie Howman (EPP bike recipient)Donation - Left to right: Nik Hughes (EPP Project Coordinator for Colchester), Emma Woolf (EPP bike recipient and project Volunteer), Vicky James (EPP bike recipient and project volunteer), Cllr Natalie Sommers, and Julie Howman (EPP bike recipient) (Image: Essex Pedal Power)

Any resident who has been hindered by a lack of transport options in the past is now able to travel to access more resources such as training, employment, and education opportunities thanks to the scheme.

First launched in Clacton and Jaywick in 2021, Essex Pedal Power has expanded to Basildon, Colchester, Harwich and Dovercourt so far.

Colchester councillor, Natalie Sommers, who is portfolio holder for communities believes this is a very important scheme.

She said “Essex Pedal Power is an extraordinary initiative that we are proud to partner with as a council.

“It represents a fresh and innovative approach to working with residents and overcoming barriers to cycling in one of our most deprived communities.

Gazette: Happy - Another donation from Essex Pedal PowerHappy - Another donation from Essex Pedal Power (Image: Essex Pedal Power)

“By providing free bikes, we aim help tackle inequalities and open up new and exciting possibilities for the local residents.”

Due to the success so far, the scheme has received a £1.039 million investment by the Colchester Council, Active Essex Local Delivery Pilot, and the NHS Suffolk and North East Essex integrated cardboard.

When it comes to the Greenstead area, the scheme is hoping to giveaway more than 700 free bikes by the end of 2025.

Lee Scott, of Essex Council cabinet member for sustainable transport, praised the health benefits that come from the scheme.

He said: “We all recognise the benefits of active travel – it's not only better for the environment and people's health but also reduces congestion and pollution.

“It's truly exciting to celebrate that the scheme has already helped 100 residents from Greenstead.

“This achievement showcases Colchester’s and the county’s commitment to a greener future and the well-being of its residents.”