Lizzie Armitstead To Launch Cycle Coventry

Last updated : 26 October 2012 By Coventry City Council

Penny farthings, choppers and a pedal powered smoothie machine are just some of the cycles that adults and children can try out in Broadgate on 30 October to help get more people cycling in Coventry.

The cycles will be provided by an organIsation called Get Cycling who run try-out roadshows across the country.  The bikes at the event will give people the opportunity to try out a range of modern utility bikes, including commuter bikes, cruisers, tricycles, tandems, child-trailers, folders, bikes adapted for people with disabilities, and fun bikes.

Olympic silver medal winner, Lizzie Armitstead will open the event by performing laps of the square on her TEAM GB bicycle.

The free event will run from 10am till 4pm and will also feature lots of stalls and information stands where you can find out more about how the City Council and Centro are planning on improving cycle and pedestrian routes to the city centre and to key places such as Westwood Business Park, the University of Warwick, the Hospital and Ricoh Arena with a government grant of more than £6m.

The Cycle Coventry project will also provide support to help people who are new to cycling by offering cycle training and practical information to local residents and businesses.

Cabinet Member for City Services, Councillor Lindsley Harvard, said:  "This fun event will give people the chance to find out more about the Cycle Coventry scheme and have a go at trying something different and also be healthy - we've even got a pedal powered smoothie maker that people can try out.  We are currently working with businesses and partners such as Centro to improve opportunities for residents and workers to cycle and get around on foot in the city and people can find out more details on the day.  There will be information and support to encourage more people, of all ages, to enjoy the health and recreational benefits of cycling.  New cycle maps will encourage people to explore more of the city by bike and bike maintenance and cycle training for adults will encourage people who might not have been on a bike for years to have a go."

Centro Chairman, Councillor John McNicholas, said: "It is great that we have been able to work together with Coventry City Council to get this programme off the ground. This is a project that will really transform cycling for the people of Coventry and this event will be a fantastic way to mark the start of the scheme.

"People can try their hand at some of the fun activities or just find out more about the changes that will be made over the next few years, which will make cycling much easier for our residents.

"The West Midlands already loses £2.3billion each year through traffic congestion and if we can get more people cycling, it will not only help them keep fit and cut Carbon but can boost the region's economy as well."

Find out more about the Cycle Coventry event.