The free loan bikes were secured using funding from Active Travel England’s Capability and Ambition Fund and support the county council’s ambition to look after residents’ health and wellbeing.
Following additional funding from ScottishPower Renewables, supporting partner of the Suffolk stage of the Tour of Britain, the pupils and their parents or carers will also be offered a Bikeability training course to give them the skills, confidence and understanding they need to take their bike on the road.
The course will also teach them the basics of bike maintenance, such as how to fix a puncture, and how to stay safe while cycling.
As part of the pilot, Rotary Club of Lowestoft East Point and Lowestoft Rising have contributed bike locks and helmets to go with the bikes.
Cllr Richard Smith MVO, Suffolk County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Transport Strategy and Waste, said:
“I would like to thank ScottishPower Renewables for supporting this pilot project and providing the opportunity to expand what we can offer. This partnership is a positive legacy from the company’s backing of the Suffolk stage of the Tour of Britain, and I am pleased to see them supporting active travel in the wider community.”
Ed Rees, ScottishPower Renewables’ East Anglia THREE Community Liaison Officer, said:
“We’re really excited to be working with Suffolk County Council to deliver the pilot Bikeability programme for local school pupils. As a cyclist myself, I know only too well the joy of getting on your bike and getting out and about to enjoy this fabulous part of the country. This is just another example of how we’re working with local people and communities to create a cleaner and greener future for Suffolk.”
Matthew Jordan, Headteacher of Phoenix St. Peter Academy, said:
“This is an amazing opportunity for all of Year 5 and 6 children to have free and safe access to a bike. Thanks to the support of Suffolk County Council and ScottishPower Renewables, all children can participate and have access to this scheme. Learning to safely ride a bike is a life skill and one which will give our children great independence in life. Cycling is also a sustainable and healthy way to travel. These are important priorities for us as a school community, our Academy Trust and Suffolk County Council.”
