A NEW community bike hub to encourage people to walk this summer has launched in Yate.

A pop-up shop that opened on North Walk in Yate Shopping centre will be a hub for information and basic bike maintenance for cyclists.

Manned by volunteers from Climate Action Yate and Chipping Sodbury, the hub will aim to encourage people to get on their bikes this summer. 

Andrew Lowrey, Yate Shopping Centre manager, said: “With the substantial increase in housing in the local area resulting in more vehicles on the road network, it is important that we join forces with Climate Action Yate and Chipping Sodbury to encourage people to take more interest in cycling and even visit the centre by bike." 

Andrew said the centre has ample racks for cyclists and those riding to the shops were doing their bit to aid the community.

“We are pleased to host the project in our unit at no cost to them, an equivalent donation of £7,000 to their cause," he added.

"We hope people will take this opportunity to drop by to brush up on their skills or even take a new interest in getting on their bikes!”

The hub will be open every Saturday from May 28 at 7 North Walk.

Group activities will include:

• Free e-bike and cargo bike hire schemes

• Bike security, including bike register events with the Neighbourhood Policing team on the 28th May and 9th July

• Ideas for getting around without a car, especially if with children or a disability

• How to check a bike is ready to ride and where to go to get help from local bike shops if a bike needs fixing.

 As part of the Group’s mission to repair and recycle accessories, there will be a kit donation station to match bike related items in good repair such as helmets, clothing and accessories with new homes. They will also be accepting donated bikes in good condition, subject to availability in the Group’s community workshop. 

Further information on the Action Group contact them at climateactionycs@gmail.com