Project to boost cycling participation being wheeled out across Strathspey
A new project being wheeled out Strathspey will help make cycling accessible to more people.
The Cairngorms National Park Authority has awarded the Aviemore-based SPIN Project £20,885 to lower financial and social barriers to taking part in the activity.
The Strathspey Pedal Initiative Project is led by Huw Oliver and Andy Toop who share a combined 30 years' experience of outdoor education and cycling enthusiasm.
The work will include delivering bike safety check sessions over eight events in each village in Strathspey as well as the refurbishment of up to 50 bikes.
The SPIN Project will also support teaching staff to deliver National 4 syllabus in bike maintenance and there will be three visits to both Kingussie and Grantown’s secondary schools to maintain school bike fleets.
In addition, the funding will support a community bike toolbox and 15 sessions of 1:1 tuition and workshop hire.
It will also allow an existing project officer to facilitate these activities, boosting people’s confidence and making cycling a more accessible travel option.
Huw Oliver, company director of the SPIN Project, said: “We're very excited to see that CNPA recognise the value of low-impact, active travel.
“Bikes are an incredible tool in so many ways - a simple set of wheels can lead to improved health, new friends and a great community.
“We can't wait to see what the SPIN Project can achieve in the next twelve months and beyond".
The funds have been awarded as part of the Cairngorms 2030 programme funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and takes in 20 long-term projects including to benefit people’s health and well-being.
David Clyne, the CNPA’s head of Cairngorms 2030, said: “Working with communities to improve active and sustainable transport in the national park is a key strand of Cairngorms 2030.
“Supporting local people to use a bike instead of a car for short journeys is a great way for us all to stay healthy, connect with nature and reduce our carbon footprint.”
