Stockport Council is supporting a new scheme created by Sustrans that helps key workers find offers on bikes and repair services in the borough.
Key workers across Stockport and the UK can now find cycle-related offers and locate bike stores that are open in their area, with a live online map launched, Friday, April 17.
Sustrans has created the map to make cycling easier for key workers as they travel to and from work each day during Covid-19.
The map displays four different types of pins for each kind of offer, including:
- access to a bike
- repairs and maintenance
- equipment and gear
- and for bike stores that remain open across the UK.
The map has a function to view and search businesses and schemes by a location name and postcode areas.
The information resource also features links to cycling and walking tips, and other useful content.
Cllr David Meller, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration, said:
This is a fantastic initiative which will help keyworkers in our borough find nearby cycle shops, bikes and equipment so they are able to travel during these unprecedented times.”
Susie Dunham, Development Director at Sustrans, said:
In the Covid-19 crisis, cycling is critical for many key workers to get to and from work each day.
“The online map was created with the needs of key workers in mind and we hope it will prove useful for everyone needing to cycle to work, be it an experienced commuter who may need a spare part or a novice who needs access to a cycle.
“An average commute is five miles – a distance that can be easily cycled in less than 30 minutes. It’s fantastic to see how the cycling industry has come together to support the people who are working so hard to get us through this crisis.”
Chris Boardman, Greater Manchester Cycling and Walking Commissioner said:
Many of the UK’s key workers rely on public transport at a time we need them to stay safe, so it shouldn’t surprise us thousands are turning to the bicycle to get to work.
“Be it for exercise or essential journeys, the bicycle is playing its part in helping us through this crisis and beyond.”
To use the map, visit https://www.sustrans.org.uk/campaigns/cycles-for-key-workers/