Council staff encouraged to get On Yer Bike for travel to work

Council staff will be able to take advantage of bike servicing sessions through a new travel project.

The On Yer Bike initiative has been organised by bicycle recycling charity the Bike Station to encourage more people who work for Perth and Kinross Council to think about using two-wheeled transport.

Council employees will be able to get their bicycles checked over, along with a basic service, as part of the Dr Bike servicing sessions.

They will also be able to boost their confidence by taking part in Cycling Scotland’s essential cycling skills on-road trainingclasses.

Leader training will also be available for cyclists who want to support colleagues to get back in the saddle.

Project co-ordinator Kat Brown, from the Bike Station, Perth, said: “These sessions, along with a leadership course and active promotion, aim to encourage employees to cycle to work, cycle to meetings and take part in a more active lifestyle, thus reducing stress, sick days and improving workplace health.

“The plus sides for the employees are saving money on travel and parking, increased health and fitness as a byproduct of getting around and a new social network and learning opportunity.

“Added community benefits are less traffic on our roads, less pollution and noise, greater sense of community spirit and safer streets.”

She said the Dr Bike sessions and essential cycling skills training made sense for people who live near their work or are thinking of cycling part of the way to save on parking costs.

Details of the sessions will be released shortly.