Firms in South Gloucestershire encourage staff to cycle to work

More than 20 companies along the A4174 ring road - representing over 40,000 staff - have signed up to an innovative scheme which will see emergency cycle repair kits deposited at dozens of workplaces.

The kits include essential cycle maintenance tools as well as spare equipment such as lights, locks and high-visibility jackets, and aim to help staff or visitors tackle minor issues that might otherwise be a big problem for cycle commuters.

Employers using the kits include Airbus, HP, Mitie, Friends Life and the Bristol & Bath Science Park, as well as the University of the West of England and NHS Blood & Transplant.

The scheme is being led by North Bristol SusCom, a partnership of major local employers committed to sustainable commuting, with support from South Gloucestershire Council via the Local Sustainable Transport Fund.

SusCom Director Ann O’Driscoll said: "We all recognise the importance of sustainable transport, such as cycling, as a way of reducing congestion and promoting healthy lifestyles.

"Cycling to work is a great way to get fit and save money and this scheme aims to make it as easy as possible for staff to do this.

"Flat tyres or forgotten locks can be a big nuisance for cyclists and this scheme aims to encourage people to bike to work in the knowledge that help is at hand should it be needed."

Cllr Brian Allinson, chairman of South Gloucestershire Council’s planning, transportation and strategic environment committee, said: "Many people live within three or five miles of their workplace, making cycling an ideal means of getting to work.

"And with recent investment in cycle routes in South Gloucestershire, there has never been a better time for people to get on their bike – especially with the added reassurance that any minor maintenance problems can be resolved when they get there, thanks to this excellent emergency kit scheme."

For further information about the scheme visit www.northbristolsuscom.org