New hub for Todmorden’s unique zero emissions delivery service

The funding will support Cargodale, a Community Interest Company set up in 2020, to build on its success in providing Todmorden’s communities and businesses with a local zero emissions delivery service.

The exciting move will see the realisation of an up to the minute technology driven hub through which Cargodale will expand its existing delivery services enabling more local cafes, shops and businesses to deliver to more customers via zero emission large capacity e-cargobikes.

The hub will be specially fitted out to consolidate Cargodale’s operations including space for the storage and maintenance of their growing fleet of cargobikes, new storage for chilled, frozen and ambient goods, as well as providing an easily accessible town centre facility for bike hire and collection.

Four state of the art new e-cargobikes specially chosen to meet the challenges of Todmorden’s rugged uplands and its valley lowlands will be the backbone of the new offer, alongside bespoke technology to provide a seamless ‘smart’ operation integrating bookings, deliveries and business management.

Current systems for tracking bikes and communicating with riders as they move through the Calder Valley will also be upgraded thanks to the funding.

Beate Kubitz, Director, Cargodale said: "It’s very exciting to get the keys to what will be our new amazing hub. Despite the pandemic, there has been a growth in cafes, shops and businesses getting involved and Todmorden’s communities wanting to keep things local and keep things green.

"Cargodale is all about supporting our community with better air quality, less traffic and safer roads.

"It’s fantastic to be able to offer more people and businesses the opportunity to sign up, so we are now welcoming more clients in readiness for the full launch of our expanded services."

Tony Lawson, Private Sector Board Member, Todmorden Town Deal and Engineering Director, Weir Minerals, said: "Cargodale is exactly the kind of initiative we want to support for Todmorden’s communities and town to be healthier, greener and to inspire and support our local economy.

"Cargodale’s ethos and ambition fit with the vision of a town that is leading the way in finding solutions that are sustainable, ground-breaking and demonstrate best practice, so we are delighted to offer support as part of the early funding available through the Towns Fund process."

Kirstie Fagan who runs a catering company says using Cargodale makes good business sense: “I’m so lucky to have found Cargodale help me with my weekly curry deliveries across Calderdale. It’s been the perfect affordable, eco-friendly solution for my small business! And the company is so friendly and great to work with.”

To find out more about Cargodale, book services and to register your interest, contact them here: https://www.cargodale.co.uk/