Uni's bike loan scheme is rewarded - The Worcester Observer

Uni's bike loan scheme is rewarded

Worcester Editorial 20th Nov, 2014 Updated: 19th Oct, 2016   0

THE UNIVERSITY of Worcester pedalled its way to success to scoop a prestigious national award.

After being shortlisted for a record six categories in the Green Gown Awards, the Henwick Road site took home the top prize in the Facilities and Services class for its bike loan scheme at a ceremony in Manchester on Monday, November 3.

In September last year they launched the idea by having staff and students pay an annual £20 membership fee and be able to hire bikes at any time from any 24/7 university reception.

It was aimed to promote a healthy mode of transport and reduce car use in the city, which was recognised by the awards.




Katy Boom, director of environmental sustainability at the university, said: “To win a Green Gown Award is a huge achievement and honour for us.

“The bike loan scheme works together with a social enterprise where young people with learning disabilities can develop practical skills and increase their self-esteem by maintaining the loan bikes and managing the campus bike shop.”


A total of 1,500 bikes were hired out under the scheme in the 2013/14 academic year, with more than 9,000 miles cycled.

Worcester’s tally of six nominations was also the joint highest this year, along with the University of the Arts London.

“We are so pleased that the innovations and commitment to embedding sustainability throughout all areas of the university were recognised through six nominations,” Katy added.

“We have the explicit vision to promote sustainable ways of working and living and to promote sustainable development with the community, and this success shows we are fulfilling this.”

The Green Gown awards, run by the Environmental Association for Universities and Colleges (EAUC), are now in their tenth year and recognise ‘exceptional sustainability schemes’ being undertaken in universities and colleges across the UK.

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