Leiston’s community bike hire scheme, backed by Sizewell C, hits 5,000-mile mark

By Comms Team | Published on 13 October 2026 | 4 min read
  • Pedal to Zero riders travel the equivalent of Leiston to South Korea
  • Sizewell C-backed initiative makes greener journeys easier
  • Aldhurst View expansion boosts bike hire network across Leiston

Users of a new community bike hire scheme funded by Sizewell C have already travelled more than 5,000 miles, the equivalent of cycling from Leiston to South Korea.

Launched by Net Zero Leiston, the Pedal to Zero initiative is providing residents and visitors with an affordable, convenient, and environmentally friendly way to travel around town, while helping to reduce carbon emissions and encourage healthier lifestyles.

Delivered in partnership with Active Cycling Projects, the three-year scheme features a fleet of 22 bikes, including standard and electric models.

Since launching in September 2025, the bikes have become a familiar sight across the town, with users embracing a greener way to get around.

Jack Raven, Senior Regional, Sustainability Project Manager at Sizewell C, said: “This has been a hugely successful initiative on behalf of Net Zero Leiston, and we’re so pleased that the community are benefitting and enjoying the bikes. Having the scheme running for a year has shown us how people like to use the bikes, which informs future expansion, something we hope we’re able to deliver soon.

“We’re grateful to all the landowners in the community. Without the support of East of England Co-op, Leiston Town Council, East Suffolk Council, Persimmon Homes, and Beach View Holiday Park, we wouldn’t be able to have the scheme here.”

Pedal to Zero bikes are available to hire from a growing network of hubs across Leiston, including the Waterloo Centre, Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council, East of England Co-op, Leiston Community Centre, and Leiston Leisure Centre.

In August, the network expanded with a new bike rack and four additional bikes at the Aldhurst View housing development, built by Persimmon Homes, helping more people access the scheme.

Stuart McAdam, Director of Planning for Persimmon Homes Suffolk, said: “We were delighted to be able to collaborate with Net Zero Leiston and Sizewell C to bring this additional bike rack to Aldhurst View, giving residents of the new development, and the surrounding area, the chance to benefit from this sustainable transport option.

“As a housebuilder, we are committed to creating thriving, sustainable communities, and we are pleased to play a role in a project that will enhance connectivity and provide lasting benefits for both existing and future residents.”

Pedal to Zero aims to promote sustainable travel, improve physical and mental wellbeing, and strengthen links with local services and businesses. All revenue generated through the scheme is reinvested, supporting its continued growth in Leiston and the surrounding area.

The project forms part of the wider Net Zero Leiston programme, a community-led initiative established in 2020 to help reduce the town’s carbon footprint and support the transition to a more sustainable future.

Other initiatives delivered through the programme include the Leiston Energy Advice Hub, established in partnership with Citizens Advice East Suffolk, and the publication of A Net Zero Pathway for Leiston, a detailed carbon assessment and roadmap developed with Opergy Group.

Cllr Katie Graham, who represents Aldeburgh and Leiston at East Suffolk Council, said:  It’s brilliant to see e-bikes serving the wonderful people of Leiston. It’s a fun, inexpensive and easy way to get about in the local area, and these new racks at Aldhurst View make it easier to join in on the ride.

“It’s good for body and soul, and good for the planet.”

Pedal to Zero is managed by Active Cycling Projects, while Woodbridge-based Virtue Electric Bikes helps keep the fleet maintained and ready for use.

Residents can access the bikes by downloading the App-Bike app and signing up free of charge. Bikes can be unlocked using the app and returned to any hub, making journeys flexible and convenient. Rental rates are £2 for one hour or £5 for eight hours.

* The bikes have travelled an estimated 5,427 miles. Of these, 3,015 miles were recorded on e-bikes, while the mileage for standard bicycles, which are not fitted with odometers, has been estimated based on usage data.