New Cycle Repair Stations Enhance Active Travel at East Riding Leisure Centres

New Facilities for Cyclists

East Riding of Yorkshire Council has taken a significant step to support cyclists by installing new self-service cycle repair stations outside six of its leisure centres. This initiative aims to facilitate cycling as a convenient, sustainable, and healthy transportation option for both residents and visitors.

Locations of the Repair Stations

The free-to-use repair stations are now available at East Riding Leisure facilities located in Bridlington, Beverley, Driffield, Haltemprice, Withernsea, and Hornsea. Each station is equipped with essential tools and bike pumps, making it easier for cyclists to make quick repairs when needed.

Promoting Active Travel

Councillor Paul West, the council’s cabinet member for environment and transport, emphasized the importance of these stations: “We’ve fitted this equipment at easy-to-reach locations to help cyclists if they are out and about and need to make urgent repairs to their bikes. Whether people are commuting, exercising, or exploring our beautiful area, these repair stations will help to ensure any minor mechanical issues don’t stop people getting out on a bike.”

This initiative is part of a broader effort funded by Active Travel England, aimed at encouraging more people to choose cycling as their primary mode of transport.

Benefits to the Community

Tim Hicks, health and wellbeing facilities manager at the council, highlighted the community advantage of these repair stations, stating, “The cycle repair stations bring a real benefit to local communities. This scheme supports and encourages people to cycle with confidence, knowing there is a safe, accessible place to stop if they need to make a quick DIY repair.”

The repair stations are strategically placed directly opposite the main entrance of each leisure centre, ensuring they are easily accessible for all cyclists. Additionally, handy ‘How To’ guides can be accessed by scanning a QR code displayed on each station, making the facilities user-friendly for cyclists of all experience levels.

Launch Events Planned

To further engage the community, the road safety team will hold a series of launch demonstration events throughout May. These events are designed for anyone interested in learning how to use the repair kits effectively. The schedule for the demonstrations is as follows:

• East Riding Leisure Beverley - Wednesday 6 May, 10am-12pm
• East Riding Leisure Haltemprice - Monday 11 May, 10am-12pm
• East Riding Leisure Driffield - Thursday 14 May, 10am-12pm
• East Riding Leisure Bridlington - Thursday 14 May, 1pm-3pm
• East Riding Leisure Withernsea - Monday 18 May, 10am-12pm
• East Riding Leisure Hornsea - Monday 18 May, 1pm-3pm

During these events, the road safety team will also promote the council’s free e-bike demonstration project and bespoke adult cycle training, which are currently being offered across the county. For those interested in registering or seeking more information, additional details can be found at E-bike demo project Guidance notes.

Encouraging a Cycling Culture

This initiative is a significant step forward in promoting cycling as a viable and enjoyable mode of transport in East Yorkshire. By providing the necessary resources for quick repairs, the council aims to foster a culture of active travel, encouraging residents to embrace cycling for commuting, exercise, and leisure. As the weather warms up and more people take to their bikes, these repair stations will be invaluable in ensuring that everyone has the tools they need to keep cycling safely and confidently.