
On Monday (9th March) about 20 people were at a evening introduction at the Nechells Community Centre to the Big Birmingham Bikes project. We were responding to a request for volunteers to help in implementing the scheme within local communities across the city. The allocation of the first 1500 bikes has been made (but the bikes not yet delivered). Those chosen as approved recipients are now able to receive free training in road skills and bike maintenance arranged a specified leisure centres. During April/May Raleigh will be delivering bikes to approved Bike Shops and can be collected using a BBB voucher, but only after undergoing bike handling and maintenance training. BBB’s team is hoping to recruit people to assist in these courses and to help in raising awareness within local communities, as more applicants are needed for the remaining 1500 allocation. During the summer there will be a programme of led rides available to all.
In addition to the ‘free bikes’ allocation, there will also be 2000 bikes available for free rental from leisure centres and bike hubs in certain parks. It is hoped that community groups (e.g. friends of the park) will be entrusted to manage their active use.
Clearly much needs to be achieved if the BBB programme is to be rolled out effectively during the relatively short time period (up to 2016). It is expected that dozens of volunteers will be needed covering all of the target locations. Applications are welcomed from anyone interested; email susan.mellor (at) birmingham.gov.uk, or ring Sue Mellor, Cycling Project Support Officer on 0121 464 1020.