Active cyclists get bike boost

THE FIRST group of eager Dundonians to get their hands on a brand new bike in a bid to be healthier and greener have cycled off into the sunset.

Baxter Park played host to the first of four community handover ceremonies organised by Get Cycling's Bike Boost Team on behalf of Dundee Travel Active.

Convener of Dundee City Council's city development committee Will Dawson said: "By offering bikes to people on a trial basis for them to prove they will use them we hope to encourage lifestyle changes that will not only save money, but improve people's health, cut traffic congestion and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"Dundee Travel Active has already established that people in the city are keen to get off the couch and out and about to improve their health and reduce their personal carbon footprint. By offering this scheme we are giving them the chance to make a difference for themselves and their community."

In total up to 100 bikes will be handed out for applicants to use until late August. If they can prove that they have used them during the trial period they will be given the bike, and associated safety equipment for a further six months, after that it will be theirs to keep.

A second phase of Bike Boost, specifically targeted at the city's student population will be launched in September.

DTA has already created a wide-ranging programme of activities to boost wellbeing and improve the local environment targeted at residents in Stobswell, City Centre, Hilltown and the West End.

Led by Dundee City Council, the scheme is backed by the Scottish Government's Smarter Choices, Smarter Places scheme for three years, and supported by a wide range of public and private bodies.

More information about Dundee Travel Active is available by visiting www.dundeetravelactive.com or by contacting the team at their Wellgate Centre base on 0800 111 4510.

www.dundeecity.gov.uk

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