A NEWLY-FORMED Worcester group has issued a rallying call to local residents to saddle up and get on their bikes around the Faithful City.
Bike Worcester is a group consisting of local councillors and residents, including representatives from Cycling UK and sustainable transport charity Sustrans, and local cycling clubs.
Initial meetings were held to develop a strategy to support an increase in cycling in and around the city. The group engaged with city and county councillors and the aims of the group have cross-party support.
A cycling manifesto has been developed in advance of the local elections, with councillors and candidates pledging their support.
The overarching aim of the group is to triple cycling rates in the city, with particular emphasis on replacing short journeys currently made by cars.
Dan Brothwell, of Bike Worcester, said: “The benefits to individuals and the wider community of increased bike usage are well documented.
“It is an extremely efficient mode of transport, improves physical and mental well-being, reduces CO2 emissions and noise, and improves air quality. If the community of Worcester could increase bike use, our city would be a better place to live, work and play, for everyone.
“Other cities around the UK and beyond are making bold decisions to change how people move, resulting in dramatic increases in numbers of people cycling, and transforming their cities for the better.
“There is no reason why Worcester shouldn’t be one of the cities at the forefront of these improvements.”
Bike Worcester chiefs have called for changes to improve infrastructure to ensure more people feel confident and safe to make regular journeys by bicycle. The collection of ideas for improvements, however big or small, is an important role of the group.
They also look at ways to incentivise and encourage individuals and businesses to increase commuting by bicycle, such as the local SHIFT scheme.
One of the highlights for the group will be Worcester Cycle Sunday on June 9 to encourage family cycling around the race course and the riverside.
Visit www.bikeworcester.org.uk for more information.
