“WE WANT more people to cycle.” That’s the message from the councillor responsible for Reading’s transport strategies.
Cllr John Ennis was in Broad Street last Thursday to celebrate the launch of a new monthly pop-up bike repair stall. Residents can bring their two wheels to the Avanti Cycling tent where Dr Bike and his team can check them over, offer advice and, if possible, quick repairs.
It is part of a new programme of activities being offered to Reading residents by the Council, which will include led cycle rides and walks with the aim of boosting active travel and the health and wellbeing of residents.
The programme will also include training for beginners and those getting back on their bikes again, with sessions aimed at tackling commuter routes and complex junctions.
There will be some female-only sessions, and there will be maintenance classes so anyone can fix a puncture.
The programme is paid for through the government’s Capability Fund allocated to local councils to promote cycling and walking.
Cllr John Ennis, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Climate Strategy and Transport, told Reading Today: “Cycling is a priority in Reading, it’s in our local transport plan, it’s a major priority going forward.
“We want more people to cycle: it’s healthy, it’s green, it’s good for you. But it’s also easy and safe and fast to get around Reading.
“Avanti is a really good organisation that we support that is, you know, promoting awareness, assisting people cycling, training as well.”
He said there was a real demand for cycling in the town.
“Reading’s known as a bus town, and (there are) a lot of cars, but cycling’s really important.
“The demand for more cycling is there in Reading, and we’ve got to make sure that we can assist and help as many people as possible to get out of their cars and get into cycling, as well as walking and taking the bus.”
To find out more about the free sessions available through Reading Borough Council’s Cycling for Active Travel & Leisure programme, visit: https://www.reading.gov.uk/vehicles-roads-and-transport/cycling/
