Communities across Greater Manchester are being offered the chance to kick-start their own sustainable bike library.
The scheme allows people to borrow a bike for free – just like a book – with the aim of encouraging them to take advantage of the new cycling routes that are being delivered across the region as part of the Bee Network.
Libraries will ordinarily be in the heart of a community, within easy reach on foot, in places such as community centres, schools, village halls or local business premises.
Organisations based or working in the city region can bid to Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) for a grant of up to £5,000 to help set up a community bike library.
Chris Boardman, Greater Manchester’s transport commissioner, said: “Around 75% of households in Greater Manchester do not have access to a bike so this is a big barrier to enabling people to get out there and try travelling sustainably.
“Along with our GM cycle hire scheme which will launch later this year, community bike libraries will offer a genuine alternative to daily car trips.
“These local schemes will help us to create a network of free bikes that are either bought or donated and then maintained by volunteers, available for use by everyone.”
Applications for grants can be made via the TfGM active travel website until 5pm on Friday 9 July.
Comment on this story