South Ayrshire Council launch bike scheme

Apr 30 2008 Ayrshire Post

GET on your bike and help save the planet.

For leaving your car at home can also help save your life.

Council chiefs have launched a brand new scheme to encourage workers to leave their cars at home.

The ‘up & go choose your move’ initiative aims to get more people to walk, bike, car share or use public transport travelling to and from work.

And those who take part could be rewarded with free passes to fitness classes and tests.

South Ayrshire’s environment chief, Councillor Peter Convery explained: “The council fully appreciates that some employees, due to the distance they travel to and from work, or during their working day, because of additional support needs, or personal circumstances need to bring their car to work.

“We are asking these employees to think about cutting down on their car usage at the weekends wherever possible, as every little helps.

“However, many employees live within walking or cycling distance of their work and could improve their physical and mental health by leaving their car at home.

“Others can easily access public transport, using it can work out cheaper and less stressful than driving.”

A travel plan has also been developed to encourage council workers to reduce the number of car journeys they make when attending business appointments.

Councillor Convery added: “Less people using less cars will help the council to reduce its carbon emissions and assist us to meet our commitment to tackle climate change, not just talk about it.

“Employees and residents will benefit and in cutting our emissions we could all be healthier and happier.”

Information on the scheme will be put on the council website, The Wire, and a booklet produced containing space to log miles walked or cycled.

A bike workshop will also be set up at the John Pollock Centre in Ayr offering free bike checks and cheap repairs.

A section of the website will provide travel information and workers will be able to post their comments, opinions and suggestions for improving cycling facilities.

Special arrangements for bus and train discount schemes, competitions and savings will also be included.

Bike racks and lockers will be installed at County Buildings and Newton House, Ayr, immediately with other locations scheduled to be added on.