Cycling UK has launched its Big Bike Revival in Blackpool, which will fix would-be cyclists’ bikes, teach them essential skills and lead rides to support more people cycling.
The programme will support new and returning cyclists using free events delivered locally by community led groups. People can bring their bikes and receive a basic cycle service. They can learn essential maintenance skills, learn how to ride a bike from beginner level or join a led bike ride to increase their cycle confidence.
Cycling UK estimates that one in three UK people own or have access to a bike, and through this programme the charity hopes to get more people using them more often.
Sarah Mitchell, Cycling UK’s chief executive said:
“As the Big Bike Revival kicks off for 2022 after seven successful years, we are focusing on teaching essential cycle skills and improving people’s cycle confidence. Our events this year will deliver fun, social and inclusive activities and services to inspire people new or fairly new to cycling. At Cycling UK, we know that many people want to start cycling, but there is often something stopping them from taking those first steps. Our experts can help them over these perceived barriers and our network of fantastic community cycle clubs can help people make lasting changes to their travel habits.”
The project is made possible thanks to a £2 million funding package from the Department for Transport, which recognises the transformational impact the scheme has on people’s lives.
Cycling minister Trudy Harrison said:
“The £2 million funding we have provided for this project will give people the skills, confidence and resources to get out there on their bikes and travel in a way that is cheaper, greener and healthier. It comes as part of a transformational £200 million Government package which will give residents more ways to travel and exercise, as well as contributing to cleaner air for communities across the UK. Cycling UK’s Big Bike Revival is now in its eighth year and since its inception has reached over 340,000 people.”
In 2022, Cycling UK aims to engage with 45% of non-regular cyclists, aiming to create 50,000 new cycling trips in the year. The Big Bike Revival will also help those concerned about the cost-of-living crisis. The cost of travel is rising, whether it’s the price of fuel at the pumps or the 3.8% rise in rail fares. Many people will consider cycling as an affordable transport mode.
The project runs until 31 October 2022, in partnership with a diverse network of community-led groups and not-for-profit organisations. If you run a community project, not-for-profit organisation or social enterprise and are interested in delivering Big Bike Revival events, applications for grant funding and details about eligibility can be found at cyclinguk.org/bigbikerevival
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