Published: Friday 08th July 2016 | 5.51pm
Chase Community Partnership and Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles launched ‘Chase Active Inclusive Cycling’ at Chase Leisure Centre today (Friday 8th July).
The exciting new project funded by Chase Community Partnership will offer everyone the opportunity to cycle through a programme of instructor led sessions at locations across the District.
The project followed a consultation carried out by Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles during ‘Chase Active Friday’, which identified a need for a cycling programme in the District.
Wheels For All, a nationwide provider of inclusive cycling, also delivered several sessions, which led to the development of a group that looked at how inclusive cycling opportunities could be bought to Cannock Chase.
Councillor Christine Mitchell, Portfolio Leader for Culture and Sport said “I am delighted Chase Active Inclusive Cycling has launched in the District. This programme will address the need for cycling which was identified by residents during the consultation. The adapted cycles will enable residents of all abilities including those who are disabled to get out in the fresh air, as well as keeping fit and healthy. I thoroughly enjoyed getting back on my bike.”
County Councillor Alan White, Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing said: “Cycling is a great way of keeping fit and healthy, and in Staffordshire we are committed to making it easier and safer for people to get on their bikes. This project will offer everyone the opportunity to cycle, with specially built and adapted bikes to cater for a whole range of disabilities and differing needs. This way, we can encourage more people to take up cycling and really feel the benefits of being active. We’re really pleased to be able to fund such an important project.”
There will be outreach sessions at local schools and in the District and bicycles will be available during the Chase Active sessions. All bicycles including adapted cycles can be hired at any time from CycleR, High Green, Cannock, who in partnership with Wheels For All will become an accredited Wheels for All centre.
Volunteering opportunities are also available for anyone who would like to become involved with this project, with training available to become a cycle leader.
During the second year of the project South Staffordshire College, students, local business and CycleR, will be working in partnership, on the development of a product designed to increase access to cycling.
For further information please call: Debbie Pearce on 01543 501520 alternatively email: deborah.pearce@wlct.org.