Renfrewshire can get on its bikes
Staff at housing associations, police stations, the Royal Alexandra Hospital and local businesses will be able to get on their bikes thanks to new funding.
Cycling Scotland, the nation’s cycling organisation, has announced its latest round of funding support with several organisations in Renfrewshire on the list.
The cash will be used to create an environment for everyone in Scotland to cycle easily and safely.
Scotland’s Cycling Friendly programme has given £25,000 to British Airways maintenance at Glasgow Airport to help the 300 staff there. It has also given £9,861 to label and ticket manufacturer Smith & McLaurin in Kilbarchan, which will encourage its 81 staff to walk and cycle more, and £11,109 for the RAH’s 3,100 workers.
Osprey House, Paisley and Ferguslie Park police offices will share £11,109 while Verint Systems at India of Inchinnan, which employs 240 people, has been given £13,940.
A number of housing associations have been given money through the Social Housing Fund for improved walking and cycling facilities.
Paisley HA has received £ 24,998, Southside Housing has been given £17,395, Bridgewater has got £ 17,136, Ferguslie Park has received £ 14,400 and Williamsborough has £8,628 come their way.
Kath Brough, head of behaviour change at Cycling Scotland, said: “We’re delighted to announce funding to 149 organisations across Scotland to encourage more people to cycle.
“Cycling Scotland works closely with partners to help employers, community groups and housing associations take advantage of the benefits of cycling and this round of funding will provide opportunity for over 90,000 people across Scotland to access improved cycling facilities.”
Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson added: “Alongside the development of quality infrastructure, high-impact behavioural change initiatives such as Cycling Scotland’s Cycling Friendly programme and Social Housing Fund are critical to encouraging greater participation in sustainable walking and cycling in our communities.
“Walking and cycling is key to improving our air quality, protecting our climate and improving our health. Encouraging active travel options for an estimated 90,000 people across Scotland is an incredible achievement and I look forward to seeing improved facilities in workplaces and communities.
“The 2017 Programme for Government committed us to build an Active Nation, where more people can benefit from opportunities to walk and cycle than ever before.
“We’re delivering on that commitment and the work of a range of partners, including Cycling Scotland, is contributing towards that objective.”
Walking and cycling is key to improving our air quality, protecting our climate and improving our health