Businesses in Badenoch and Strathspey invited to electric cycling event
Businesses are invited to an event at the St John’s Church Hall, Inverdruie, this Thursday (March 21 to find out how they can support and benefit from an exciting electric bike project in the Cairngorms National Park.
The Cairngorms Electric Bicycle Network hopes to develop a network of hire and charge points for electric bikes around the Park. The scheme would be run by local businesses who would act as a hire point, a battery charging point or a hub providing maintenance and breakdown cover – or all three. Businesses would initially lease the bikes, and any profits made after paying for the lease are kept by the business! There will also be specially designed route maps which will promote the numerous scenic places to visit in the Park, as well as the businesses acting as hire and charge points.
This network will be part of a nation wide scheme, and will:
- Build on the cycling opportunities in the Park
- Create a new market of users
- Reduce emissions by encouraging people to cycle rather than drive and
- Improve people’s health
Mike Dennison, Cycling Development Officer for the Cairngorms National Park, says the project is already a success in three other National Parks and believes it will bring similar benefits to the Cairngorms.
“The Park is one of the best places in Scotland for cycling – there are great opportunities for mountain biking, road biking and touring. This project will help to promote the Park as a cycling destination whatever your level of fitness or ability. It is an activity we want everyone to enjoy and there are also real benefits for businesses and communities. You are linking into a national network and there is a real opportunity to develop additional income for your business. We really hope people come along to the event - there’s even an opportunity to test ride the bikes!”
The project is part of wider work by the Cairngorms National Park Authority and partners to deliver a Cycling Action Plan for the Cairngorms National Park. It will develop cycling opportunities in the Park for people to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.
The Cairngorms Electric Bike Network is being delivered by Sustrans, in partnership with the Cairngorms National Park Authority, the Scottish Government, and Electric Travel CIC.
The event starts at 3pm.
