Borrow a bike commuter scheme

People in Durham are being invited to get on someone else’s bike to save money and commute healthier.

Durham County Council’s Borrow a Bike scheme has been launched at the Abbey Sports Centre in Pity Me and is open to anyone who lives or works in Framwellgate Moor, Pity Me, Newton Hall and Brasside.

The scheme aims to support people returning to their workplace to travel actively and sustainably and improve their health and wellbeing and follows a pilot scheme in Shildon last year.

The scheme offers residents a loan of a bike for three months, along with equipment, training and support for those wishing to improve their skills and more sites are set to open in the coming months – funded as part of the council’s action plan to tackle the Climate Emergency.

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “We are delighted to be rolling out the Borrow a Bike scheme across County Durham. Cycling has so many benefits. It is a great way to improve both our physical health and mental wellbeing.

“With many of us having reduced our activity levels over the past 18 months, signing up for the Borrow a Bike scheme is a great starting point to leading a more active lifestyle.”

Cllr Mark Wilkes, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and climate change, said: “As part of our commitment to protecting the environment, we are determined to offer more sustainable travel options.”

For further information, or to sign up for the scheme, go to www.durham.gov.uk/ borrowabike