Published on 7th August 2019

lady cycling

Cycle to Work day takes place tomorrow (Thursday 8 August) Cheltenham Borough Council is encouraging its employees and the public to take to two wheels!

With all of the excitement surrounding the upcoming Cheltenham Festival of Cycling whizzing around the heart of Cheltenham on 1 September, it’s hard to ignore the benefits and enjoyment that comes from cycling.

Seeing greater numbers of people commuting to work by bike will make a significant contribution to the climate change agenda and supports the council’s climate emergency which was declared last month.

Two council group ‘cycle buses’ have been organised with riders meeting in either Charlton Kings or Lansdown at 8.15am on Thursday 8 August.

Meetings points will be:
•    In front of The Royal Pub opposite St. Mary’s Church (Charlton Kings)
•    The junction of Lansdown Road and Granley Road opposite the Esso petrol station (Lansdown).
•    Both rides will take approx. 20 minutes and have pick up points along the route - Charlton Kings at the Meadow Café and Sandford Park Lido, the Hatherley ride will meet at the junction of Granley Road and Lansdown Road (A40) and the Honeybourne Line entrance from the train station.
•    Anyone can join the rides anywhere along the routes which will be mainly off road. See our route map for further details.

Cllr Max Wilkinson, Cheltenham Borough Council’s walking and cycling champion, says: “We all want to improve our air quality and be healthier – walking or cycling to work instead of taking the car is the simplest way to do that. Building a bit of exercise into your daily routine is good for mental health and productivity at work too. You don’t need lycra, we won’t be going fast and the rides are pretty flat, so please do get involved.  Cycling around Cheltenham has changed my life for the better and I hope others will discover the benefits too.”

On arriving at the Municipal Offices council staff will be offered the opportunity to try-out council pool bikes including an electric bike that is being made available for journeys to off-site meetings.

Tim Atkins managing director for place and growth said: “It would be fantastic to see as many people join us to show how easy it is to commute to work on bike. I’m also delighted to see the launch of our staff electric pool bike which will make cycling a realistic option for most staff. Cycling is great for your wellbeing and it also contributes to the wider climate change agenda.’’
 

For media enquiries, contact: communications, telephone 01242 264154, email [email protected]

Notes:
Anyone over the age of 18 is invited to join the ride and be responsible for themselves.