In partnership with en-form, Colchester Anti-Loo Roll Brigade and Route 51 Cycle Project, Colchester Borough Council has received 110 unwanted bicycles to be refurbished and gifted to local community groups and individuals most in need.
The bikes were donated as part of Colchester’s Community Cycle scheme, which enables residents to take unwanted bicycles to drop-off points and receive a free bike check with Dr Bike. Residents were also able to access free cycling safety equipment, whether or not they had an unwanted bike to donate.
The Anti-Loo Roll Brigade will also be offering another collection day for people who are unable to get to one of the donation points. More details will be announced on their social media channels.
Cllr Julie Young, Colchester Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Housing & Communities, said: “What an incredible achievement! I want to thank all the local heroes who donated their unused bikes and CBC staff and partner organisations who ran this scheme. As the cost of living becomes harder, some of our most vulnerable residents will struggle to pay for public transport or to afford a bicycle. Your donations will mean they can continue to live independently, socialise, and attend vital appointments.”
Cllr Julie Young added: “We received 40 more bicycles than last year, which reflects the ongoing success and popularity of the scheme.
“There’s clearly an appetite for cycling in Colchester, which is why I’m so excited to be launching Essex Pedal Power later this year. We anticipate the project will have a positive effect on hundreds, if not thousands, of residents.”
Essex Pedal Power, which was piloted in Clacton and Jaywick Sands, will be launching in Colchester later this year. Eligible residents over the age of 12 will be able to apply for a bike, as well as join new community cycling clubs.
Community Cycle and Essex Pedal Power are some of the activities made possible by Active Essex funding as part of the Sport England Local Delivery Pilot (LDP), to support their work in encouraging physical activity and healthy lifestyles among the most disadvantaged communities in the local population.
The money has been awarded to Colchester Borough Council and Active Essex to test new health and wellbeing projects such as free for all Park Play, Street Tag and Beat the Streets.
The funding also links directly to the costs of the LDP already incurred over the past four years and to the delivery of the following projects which are either happening or are proposed: Essex Pedal Power; activities celebrating The Commonwealth Games; ParkPlay; Beat the Street; suicide prevention; investment in open spaces for ‘green prescribing;’ youth facilities and Street Tag.
Pictured above: Cllr Young and Lee Pugh from En-form in front of some of the donated bikes from the Eco festival.
Page last reviewed: 6 September 2022