'Bikes change lives': Glasgow cycling project marks success

Cyclists in North Glasgow <i>(Image: Andy Catlin)</i>
Cyclists in North Glasgow (Image: Andy Catlin)
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Glasgow communities came together to celebrate a successful cycling initiative.

Cycling UK held a special event at Barmulloch Residents Centre to showcase the impact of its work in the city.

The organisation marked another year of providing bikes, funding, repairs and support for their partners to promote healthier lifestyles.

'Bikes change lives': Glasgow cycling project marks success (Image: Andy Catlin) (Image: Andy Catlin) (Image: Andy Catlin) (Image: Andy Catlin) Sean Brady, senior project officer, said: "It was good fun, we had 40 people there.

"We had a chance to hear stories from the NHS and other local groups such as Bluevale.

"We also had a nice networking lunch, a chance for people to connect and we took them for a ride on the new cycling routes around North Glasgow.

"It gave people a chance to see the work the council has been doing to make cycling safer.

"We also went on a short health walk around Robroyston Park, which is a really nice nature reserve."


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Since 2024, Cycle UK's Glasgow branch has been encouraging and supporting residents to ditch their cars for a more environmentally friendly transport option.

The organisation provided over £563,000 in funding to 66 organisations, helping to deliver 758 new or recycled bikes, nearly 500 repairs, and vital storage solutions, removing barriers to cycling. 

(Image: Andy Catlin) (Image: Andy Catlin) (Image: Andy Catlin) (Image: Andy Catlin) Thanks to their initiatives, such as the Connecting Communities programme and the Access Fund, 90% of participants said they regularly cycle, up from a previous 59%.

Suzanne Forup, Cycling UK’s head of behaviour change and development in Scotland, said:  “Across Glasgow, we’re seeing how access to bikes and local support can change lives.

"Whether it’s a nurse getting their bike fixed at work, or a parent finding the confidence to cycle with their kids, our programmes are helping people travel more actively, affordably and sustainably.

"This event in Glasgow is a brilliant example of how walking, wheeling and cycling can bring communities together and make a real difference.” 

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