The Beat the Street game is returning to Colchester, Essex, from March 11 to April 22, 2026, to encourage residents to get active by walking and cycling around the city. This six-week challenge transforms the local area into a giant game where people can earn points and win prizes for their schools or community groups.
Participants use contactless cards or small fobs to tap sensors called Beat Boxes, which are attached to lampposts across the city. By tapping these sensors while walking, cycling, running, or scooting, players earn points that help their teams move up a live leaderboard. The Beat the Street initiative is designed to help families and commuters explore local streets and parks together.
Top-performing teams can win hundreds of pounds in vouchers for sports equipment and books. The project is being delivered by Intelligent Health on behalf of Colchester City Council and Livewell Colchester.
According to an official, the game turns everyday walks into an adventure while improving fitness and mental wellbeing for residents. The initiative was created by Dr. William Bird MBE to help people spend less time sitting and more time being active outdoors.
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