Funding to enable access to bikes in ‘affordable, easy and convenient way’

The Scottish Government is investing £1 million to support bike share schemes, as it looks to tackle barriers to cycling.

Delivered by Cycling UK, the Cycle Share Fund aims to get more people in Scotland cycling, by enabling access to bikes in an ‘affordable, easy and convenient way’.

It will enable organisations to purchase cycles and equipment for schemes that provide people with access to a bike that they don’t own. This includes loan schemes, subscription services, hire schemes, bike libraries, pool bikes and bike shares.

Organisations who run or wish to run any form of cycle share scheme, including third sector and community organisations, charities, schools and other workplaces, will be eligible to apply for funding.

Suzanne Forup, head of development at Cycling UK in Scotland, said: “We’re delighted to be delivering this fund that will provide more opportunities for people to cycle in an affordable and accessible way. 

“We know that owning a cycle is not the best option for everyone, so we look forward to supporting a range of schemes that will enable people to feel all the benefits of cycling – financially, for their health, wellbeing and for our environment.”

Transport Scotland says the fund will tackle barriers to cycling including the upfront costs of buying a bike, uncertainty around choosing the right bike or how to maintain it, or lack of a safe place to store a cycle.

It has launched the funding ahead of the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships.

Patrick Harvie, minister for active travel, said: “With the eyes of the world on Scotland for the first ever UCI 2023 Cycling World Championships – this investment demonstrates our commitment to removing barriers to cycling by expanding access – helping to keep the wheels in motion for everyday cycling after the event concludes.”

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