People thinking about shifting from car to bike for their commute to work are being encouraged to take part in a new Loan Bike Scheme available to those living or working in the area.
The Council is funding the scheme whilst two local bike shops are taking part – Bike It, Radstock and Take Charge, Bath. The loan is free and people have the choice of:
- A hybrid bike – this is a robust road bicycle;
- An electric bike – this helps with the hills;
- A folding bike – easy to use on public transport.
Councillor Paul Crossley (Lib-Dem, Southdown), Leader of Council, said, “The Council is promoting and supporting sustainable forms of transport as much as we can to help tackle traffic congestion, improve air quality, and enhance people’s health.
“The scheme is designed so that people can try cycling before they buy. Shifting the daily commute from a car to a bicycle might seem a big commitment, but by taking part in free bike hire people will be able to see how easy it can be.”
Two of the first participants in the scheme are Councillor Neil Butters, Chairman of the Council and Jo Farrar, Chief Executive who collected their bikes on the day that the scheme launched.
Get involved in 3 easy steps:
- Get a voucher from the Travel West Field Team via [email protected] or call 0117 3521105;
- Call the nearest participating bike shop to make an appointment, check your requirements, and check the availability of bikes;
- Turn-up and collect your bike, lights, lock, and panniers. The bike can be used for up to four weeks, although the period could be shorter subject to demand. A returnable deposit of up to £100 is required.
Free cycle training, journey planning advice, and free bus taster tickets are also available from the Travel West Team. More information is available at www.travelwest.info
