A GROUND-breaking scheme offering free bikes to Essex residents provides £12 in social benefits for every £1 spent, a new independent report has revealed.

The research was authored by economic consultants Volterra on behalf of the Active Wellbeing Society. It assesses the impact of three pilot schemes, Essex Pedal Power, and similar projects in Birmingham and Southall.

The report estimates that across the 12,000 bikes distributed, the projects generate a Social Return on Investment of £12 for every £1 spent.

This is much higher than Active Travel England’s expectation for schemes. It also represents “Very High” Value for Money according to the Department for Transport framework.

The social benefits of the free bikes also include:

improving people’s access to work and opportunities
increasing recipients’ physical activity
contributing to the move towards Net Zero
boosting community cohesion
Bikes also had a transformative impact on the mental health and wellbeing of residents. On a per bike basis, this benefit was estimated to be around £10,000 per year for the average recipient (according to Wellbeing-Adjusted Life Year).

The Health Impact Assessment also estimates the schemes could prevent 58 new cases of disease annually, saving the NHS around £1 million each year.

Councillor Tom Cunningham, Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Sustainable Transport, said: “Essex Pedal Power is a shining example of how transport initiatives can change lives.

“By removing barriers to cycling, we’re investing in individuals and enabling more people to access jobs, training opportunities, and local businesses, boosting productivity and supporting a stronger workforce.

“This report proves that investing in active travel delivers outstanding value for money and can help to power our economy.”

Councillor John Spence, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Adult Social Care, Public Health and Integration, added: “Essex Pedal Power is helping residents become more active, reduce the risk of preventable diseases, and improve mental wellbeing.

“The evidence shows this scheme isn’t just good for transport, it will help create healthier communities, as well as saving the NHS money.”

Started in 2021, Essex Pedal Power has distributed more than 4,000 bikes across Tendring, Colchester, Basildon, Canvey Island and Harlow.

In addition to free bikes, the programme offers volunteering opportunities and training sessions to people living in some of the county’s most disadvantaged communities.

The scheme has even extended to Basildon University Hospital, providing free bikes on prescription for those with preventable diseases. They are also available to support hospital workers to access their jobs with more ease.

Read the full report at: www.theaws.co.uk.

Find out more about Essex Pedal Power at: www.activeessex.org/essex-pedal-power/.