Small businesses and community groups across Bath and North East Somerset are being encouraged to act quickly to secure free bike stands, thanks to an expanding charity-led initiative aimed at enhancing cycling infrastructure in the area.
Life Cycle, a Bristol-based cycling charity, has obtained new funding to provide secure, cost-free cycle stands in collaboration with Bath & North East Somerset Council. This effort is part of the long-running Take a Stand® programme, designed to promote greener travel, encourage healthier lifestyles, and alleviate transport poverty.
Eligible organisations can receive up to two Sheffield stands—offering four cycle parking spaces—completely free of charge. However, recipients are responsible for installation. Applications will remain open until all available stands are allocated, so early application is strongly recommended.
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“By providing free cycle parking, we are helping local businesses and organisations make sustainable transport easier for everyone,” said Bernadette Thomson, coordinator of the Take a Stand® programme. “We’re thrilled to expand the scheme and support even more organisations in BathNES as they move toward a greener, healthier future.”
Over the past decade, hundreds of establishments—including cafés, pubs, libraries, allotments, and educational centres—have benefited from this scheme across the South West. Many have reported enhanced bike security, increased footfall, and a significant rise in cycling activity.
“We love our new cycle stand! It contributes to the sense of community, encourages fitness, and helps the environment. Customers feel secure leaving their bikes outside our shop,” shared Alice from Paper Plane.
Since its inception in 1999, Life Cycle has supported over 87,000 individuals from diverse backgrounds and abilities by providing bike training, cycling support for those with additional needs, and career-building programmes within the cycling industry—including initiatives inside prisons.
For more information or to apply, interested organisations are encouraged to visit the Life Cycle website.