THIS Friday sees the start of a month of bike inspired activities across the borough with the launch of four new community cycling hubs, Dr Bike bicycle repairs, group bike rides, advice and support.
Dr Bike checks are in operation this Friday, February 4 from 10am to 4pm at the Council House.
Experienced bike mechanics from the council’s Sustainable Travel Team will check over bikes, make simple repairs and adjustments ensuring they are in good working order.
They will also provide information on any further specific maintenance or repairs that may need to be undertaken, and provide general advice about bike care and maintenance.
Also on Friday 4 February, from 11am to 3pm at Touchwood there will be sustainable travel advice:
The team will be on hand with information about the new cycle infrastructure and support including a Dr Bike clinic, adult cycle training and bike demos plus public transport information.
The council has also been awarded match-funding from British Cycling’s Places to Ride capital grants programme for four new community cycling hubs at Babbs Mill, Tudor Grange Park, Shirley Park and Elmdon Park. Each Saturday in February will see the launch of a new Community Cycling Hub with free cycling activities to celebrate and encourage people to get cycling.
Activities will include:
Dr Bike sessions for basic bike repairs
Group Rides with bike and helmets available to borrow
Chance to try out the new hub bikes
Adapted bikes
Cycle security marking and advice from West Midlands Police
The launch events take place at:
Babbs Mill Lake – Saturday, February 5, 9.30am to 12.30pm
Tudor Grange Park (by the bike track) – Saturday, February 14 , 9.30am to 1.30pm
Shirley Park (beyond the tennis courts) – Saturday, February 19, 9.30am to 1.30pm
Elmdon Park (church car park) – Saturday, February 26, 9.30am – 1.30pm
Deputy Leader for Solihull Council and Cabinet Member for Leisure and Tourism Councillor Karen Grinsell said: “As the weather starts to pick up, our bike activities and new bike hubs are a great opportunity for people to give cycling a go.
“Cycling is a great way to keep fit and improve your mental health and wellbeing. It’s also non-polluting and a sustainable way to travel. What’s good for you is good for the planet too! Please take advantage of these free activities and the advice and support that is on offer and get on a bike – from a bike hub or your own.”
Nick Barr from British Cycling added: “We are really pleased to have been able to support the new community hubs through the Places to Ride investment programme. T
“The community hubs across Solihull will present local opportunities for all people to access cycling and develop a love for cycling.
“We look forward to working with Solihull Council to develop a strong community recreation programme which will offer cycling opportunities for adults, families, and children and young people.”
To book a slot with Dr Bike this Friday please leave your details at: https://solihull.cycleready.co.uk/publicbooking
For more information about the Community Bike Hubs and the launch events see www.solihullactive.co.uk/cycling-in-solihull
