Todmorden Stroll and Roll: Making Active Travel Accessible in the Calder Valley

In 2024, Cargodale, a cargo bike delivery service operating across the Calder Valley, received funding from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to establish a community active travel hub. By April 2025, this vision came to life with the launch of Todmorden Stroll and Roll.

Encouraging Active Travel in Todmorden

Stroll and Roll was created to promote walking and cycling across the Calder Valley, with a particular focus on Todmorden, where the hub is based. The initiative recognises a gap in free activities and events that support and encourage people who are interested in taking up walking or cycling.

"The Calder Valley is a beautiful place to travel by bicycle, however it is tough due to the steep, hilly terrain. This is a huge barrier for those wanting to take up cycling or start commuting by bike. An e-bike is a really great solution to this, however it is a large investment to make without trying one first. Our scheme has given people the opportunity to do so. It has been fantastic to see the positive impact our e-bikes have had on the lives of those who have hired them, with many going on to purchase one afterwards" - Amy, Active Travel Coordinator

E-Bike Library Scheme

One of the standout features of Stroll and Roll is its e-bike library, operated from Todmorden Market. This scheme offers local residents the chance to try an e-bike for just £20 for a two-week loan. A variety of bike sizes are available, all equipped with pannier baskets, lights, and locks. For families, there’s also a Tern GSD cargo bike that can carry two child passengers, making school runs and shopping trips more sustainable and fun.

Community Events and Activities

Beyond the e-bike hire scheme, Stroll and Roll hosts a range of activities to get people moving:

• Weekly walks from Todmorden Market

• Guided hiking events

• ‘Dr Bike’ sessions, offering free bike safety checks and minor repairs

• Beginner evening rides throughout the summer

• Bike skills and confidence-building sessions for new or nervous riders

  
  

Their website also features a directory of resources for those looking to walk or cycle more, including local groups and route suggestions.

Collaborative Efforts for a Healthier Community

Stroll and Roll works closely with The Makery at Todmorden Learning Centre, which runs volunteer-led bike repair sessions every Monday evening.

In partnership with Active Calderdale, these organisations are building a more inclusive and accessible walking and biking network in Todmorden.

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We’ve had some fantastic feedback from users during the first six months of the e-bike hire scheme:

"I didn't drive anywhere as the bike was easy enough to jump on to conduct my weekly errands and leisurely activities."

"Hiring the e-bikes got us cycling again! We did trips we wouldn't have managed without assistance and still got lots of exercise."

"I went out daily with my son (aged 2) and went up steep hills to see sheep and horses."

"After having the Tern GSD for 2 weeks to do the school run and local shopping trips we finally sold the car and made the switch."