Collaboration aims to enhance city’s green transport options
A Liverpool property contractor and non-profit bikes specialist have joined forces to deliver a greener transport option for the city.
Vermont has collaborated with HYPE Urban Bikes to launch a new ‘bike hub’, which will offer affordable bicycles for hire and purchase, as well as a host of free and low-cost cycling-based activities and skills workshops.
HYPE Urban Bikes city centre hub, located on Sefton Street, was officially opened by Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor, Steve Rotheram yesterday (April 2).
It aims to make cycling accessible to all and get people living in and visiting the region on their bikes to explore the area, improve their health and wellbeing, and promote green, active travel.
It provides free and low-cost activities including road and cycle safety sessions, group rides and balance bike sessions in, and a host of courses and workshops covering topics such as cycle mechanics, recycling sustainability and leadership.
As a not-for-profit organisation, all monies generated by the bike hub will be invested back into the community, funding events, initiatives and the establishment of future hubs in other boroughs in the city region.
Matthew Houghton from HYPE Urban Bikes, said: “HYPE Urban Bikes will create a vibrant, healthy and connected community that will give back to the region and the people in it through cleaner air, reduced social isolation, improved fitness and a reduction in waste, through recycling and refurbishment of bikes.
“Last year the Metro Mayor, Steve Rotheram, revealed his plans to improve cycling in the city region and announced a dedicated fund. He has talked about his own experience of swapping his car for a bike and knows first-hand the benefits it can bring.”
He added: “Every penny spent with us is an investment directly back into the city region, so everyone benefits.”
Mark Connor, from Vermont Property Group, said: “We will be looking to see how we can support and assist the roll-out across the city.
“In doing so, we will also see the initiative provide skills and employment opportunities for local young people, which is fantastic for us as a business based in L8.”
Simon O’Brien, Liverpool City Region Cycling & Walking Commissioner, said: “When I visited HYPE’s Bike Hub on the Wirral I was blown away by the energy and passion that Matt and the team have for encouraging everyone to get out and enjoy time on their bikes, so it’s great news that they are now opening a new hub in the heart of Liverpool.
“The location with its easy access to the riverfront and the city centre is a most welcome addition to the cycling community of the region.”
