Cycle store to open in renovated town centre property
JE James Cycles – one of the largest independent cycle retailers in Europe – will be opening a store in Barnsley town centre this May.
The three-storey, 7,874 sq ft store will be at 12-18 Eldon Street.
It will offer bikes and cycling goods from both JE James Cycles, a family-run business which has been operating for over 60 years, and Giant Bikes, one of the biggest bike brands in the world.
12-18 Eldon Street is part of the Eldon Street High Street Heritage Action Zone (HAZ), a four-year £4m project between Barnsley Council and Historic England, which aims to bring life back to historic buildings through restoration work and cultural activity on the street.
The Eldon Street High Street HAZ awarded a grant to support renovation of the property, including works to the shop front and repairs to the roof.
Chris James, business partner at JE James Cycles, said: “We’re really excited about bringing JE James Cycles and Giant Bikes to Barnsley.
“When we took on 12-18 Eldon Street, it was in a poor state to say the least. An awful lot of effort has been put into its renovation from all sides and we’re passionate about bringing a new lease of life to a building that was very nearly too far gone to save.
“We couldn’t have done this without the help of the HAZ scheme.”
Cllr Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesman for regeneration and culture, added: “JE James Cycles is an extremely popular Yorkshire brand, and we are pleased to welcome them to Barnsley town centre this year.
“Their brand-new store will be a completely new offering for us and shows real faith from the private sector in the regeneration that has taken place in Barnsley.
“It will also assist us in renovating another key piece of the puzzle in the centre, as part of the Heritage Action Zone, and in supporting our upcoming expanded Active Travel Hub.”
Sheffield City Council has previously revealed a project to encourage more cycle usage. This will include the use of £950,000 worth of funds from South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority for expansion of the current Active Travel Hub based at Barnsley Interchange.
The hub will see hireable bicycles and e-bikes purchased to encourage both cycling and walking in the town centre.
A mobile hub will also be launched, meaning communities and workplaces across the borough will have access to bike loans, free repair service and advice.
