WORCESTER is set to host the World Bike Bus Summit next year and is expected to see visitors from North America and Europe.
The summit is organised by Bike Pus volunteers from around the world which encourages collaboration.
It aims to create networks, ensuring Bike Buses continue to grow – demanding politicians to invest in safe routes for children.
There will be a programme of events alongside the summit which aims to show how the city has made its Bike Bus provision.
Rob Collier, Bike Bus volunteer coordinator, said: “The stars have aligned beautifully, and 2025 is going to be the biggest year yet for Bike Worcester, Bike Buses and active travel in Worcester.
“We currently support Bike Buses at 10 schools in Worcester, and already have enquiries for the start of the next school term.
“Our aim is to support at least one family with their Bike Bus at every primary school in Worcester by next April.
“We have the funding, now we need the help of families, schools and volunteers to make this happen.
“Please get in touch via our website or social media if you’d like to get started at your school; you can start a Bike Bus with a single family, and Bike Worcester can help provide volunteers to support you on your route to school.”
Kim Price, Bike Bus lead at Honeywell Primary School said that the school started the scheme in 2023 and the children really look forward to it, rain or shine.
Dan Brothwell, Chair of Bike Worcester, added: “This has the potential to be massive for the city, and could really put us on the map; we’re super excited about the event and we’ve had lots of encouragement from the City and County councils, local businesses and other organisations such as Cycling UK and Sustrans.
“Yes, we still need safe cycling routes across the city centre and a network of segregated routes throughout Worcester, and in an ideal world Bike Buses wouldn’t be needed, but for the time being this offers school children the opportunity to travel to school under their own steam.”
Worcester MP Tom Collins volunteers on the Nunnery Wood PS Bike Bus, and said the scheme has made a huge difference to families who otherwise could not bike to school safely.
Bike Worcester has helped set up 14 Bike Bus routes at ten schools in Worcester over the last two years.
