A free bike loan scheme supporting workers to save money and travel healthier is being
rolled out across County Durham.
Following the success of a pilot in Shildon last year, Durham County Council’s Borrow a
Bike scheme has now launched at Abbey Sports Centre in Pity Me, Durham, as part of
Cycle September.
Open to anyone who lives or works in Framwellgate Moor, Pity Me, Newton Hall and
Brasside, it aims to support people returning to their workplace to travel actively and
sustainably and improve their health and wellbeing.
The scheme offers residents a complimentary bike loan for three months alongside
equipment, training and support for those wishing to improve their skills and confidence.
It is the first of four more sites set to open in the coming months, with the roll-out being
funded as part of the council’s action plan to tackle the Climate Emergency.
Borrow a Bike will also be further developed to include a wider range of bikes and more
facilities at the collection and storage points.
Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and
partnerships, said: “We are delighted to be rolling out the Borrow a Bike scheme across
County Durham. Cycling has so many benefits. It is a great way to improve both our
physical health and mental wellbeing.
“With many of us having reduced our activity levels over the past 18 months, signing up for
the Borrow a Bike scheme is a great starting point to leading a more active lifestyle.”
Cllr Mark Wilkes, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and
climate change, said: “It is fantastic that more residents across County Durham are able to
take part in the Borrow a Bike scheme. As part of our commitment to protecting the
environment, we are determined to offer more sustainable travel options. Proven carbon
savings were made in the pilot scheme in Shildon so I would strongly encourage residents
to take up the offer and commute sustainably more widely across the county.”
For further information about Borrow a Bike or to sign up for the scheme, visit
Residents can also find more information on cycling at www.durham.gov.uk/cycling
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