Free cycle scheme available from 1 September
The County Durham Primary Care Trust is funding free pedal power in the City of Durham in an effort to improve the health of residents. Other benefits being highlighted in the scheme, which is unique in the area, are the environmental and financial gains everyone could enjoy by getting on their bikes.
The PCT has given £15 000 to pay for 50 new bikes, and 50 new cycling helmets, as well as 10 child tag alongs. (Child seat extensions on wheels which attach to the rear of a normal bike) There will be 10 bikes and safety equipment plus two tag alongs at each of the following 5 Durham Leisure venues which are Freeman's Quay, Sherburn, Abbey, Meadowfield and Deerness. Coxhoe already has a thriving free cycle hire scheme which includes specially adapted bikes for disabled users. As part of the extensive expansion of the Council's free cycle hire programme the PCT money will also pay for a new trailer so that the adapted bikes and any additional cycles required can be taken to different centres.
David Allen, health improvement lead for the PCT says the Trust is pleased to be backing the campaign, " The PCT is dedicated to improving public health and reducing health inequalities. Cycling is an enjoyable way for people of all ages and abilities to engage in physical activity Active Durham's 'month of cycling' will increase opportunities to cycle within local communities and promote participation as part of a healthy lifestyle."
Jonathan Elmer, City of Durham's Sustainable Development Manager, says the new free cycle hire scheme, which will run indefinitely, is good news all round, "It's great to hear that the PCT have funded this brilliant initiative to improve our leisure centre cycling facilities. Not only is cycling of great benefit to health, a journey on a bike is potentially a journey avoided in a car. This means less congestion, safer roads, saved money on fuel, and reduced carbon emissions. As a county we really do need to get more people on their bikes."
In addition to free bike and safety gear hire the money will fund a programme of guided cycle rides from all the centres over the next year. The first is from Deerness Leisure Centre on September 7 starting at 11am. What's more if you sign up for that ride or register and hire a cycle from us during September you'll automatically go into a free draw and could win a new bike!
To take advantage of the offer all you need is a leisure card which is also free and can be collected from any of the 6 centres. To find out more visit www.durhamcity.gov.uk/Leisure
