Free Bikes for Stirling Residents through Bike Share

Stirling residents will get free access to a fleet of 200 free bikes for the next three months as the number of people cycling surges due to Covid-19.

Article Source: Stirling PR
Last Updated: 10 June 2020 10:44

Free Bikes for Stirling Residents through Bike Share

---Surge in people cycling prompts innovative partnership initiative to offer three-month free bike trial in the city---

---Latest stats show the numbers of people cycling in Cornton Road in Stirling increased by 61 per cent compared to May 2019---

Stirling residents will get free access to a fleet of 200 free bikes for the next three months as the number of people cycling surges due to Covid-19.

From today, Wednesday 10 June, the bikes will be available to pick up from 25 locations around the city. People can ride for up to half an hour and drop them off or renew for another 30 minutes at any docking station.

Cycling Scotland, Forth Environment Link and Recyke-a-Bike have teamed up with nextbike UK in Stirling to deliver the scheme, thanks to £30,000 funding from Transport Scotland.

The news comes after Cycling Scotland’s nationwide network of cycle counters recorded a significant increase in people cycling during May, with numbers up in one Stirling location by 61 per cent* compared to this time last year.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson said: “I’m pleased that Scottish Government funding can support this exciting partnership for cycling across Stirling. We’ve seen cycling increase dramatically across the country and it’s important we continue to secure this sustainable shift in travel behaviour through initiatives like this. I’m sure this step will be welcomed by local residents and I look forward to seeing positive outcomes for greener travel choices.

“As we return to a new normal, Transport Scotland has published a Transport Transition Plan and new guidance for those who need to travel. One of the best things we can do to help manage demand on our transport system, while benefitting our health and protecting our climate, is by staying local and continuing to walk, cycle and wheel where we can.”

Cycling Scotland Head of Education and Training, Chris Johnson, said: “Our nationwide network of counters has recorded a big increase in the number of people cycling during lockdown. We have also seen a surge in demand for bikes.

“This new initiative is a great example of cycling organisations coming together quickly to help more people travel by bike, regardless of income, and to access the physical and mental benefits from cycling.

“To help people cycle beyond lockdown, when physical distancing will still be required, one of several things we need to do is increase access to bikes and this trial is a really positive step to help more people in Stirling cycle.”

Cllr Jim Thomson, Convener for Environment at Stirling Council said: “It’s one of our key priorities to improve access to environmentally friendly travel so nextbike has been a valued partner for years now.

“Daily exercise is great for the body and mind, and giving access to these bikes for free makes it even easier for the people of Stirling to stay healthy, while adhering to the national guidelines on travel.”

The new scheme builds on the success of two other lockdown initiatives organised by charity Forth Environment Link, in partnership with Cycling Scotland and Recyke-a-Bike, which have made nextbikes and Forth Bike bikes free to key workers during the pandemic.

Executive Director of Forth Environment Link, Clara Walker said: "Cycling is proving to be one of the best ways to get around during the crisis. In fact, we've seen bike share use in Forth Valley soar to three times its normal level since lockdown began. We’ve also had some fantastic feedback from key workers about the benefits to their physical and mental health. This new scheme, which extends free nextbike hire to all for the next three months, is a great way for everyone to try out a bike and build exercise into their daily routine, helping them stay active."

nextbike MD Krysia Solheim said: "There has never been a better time to get on a bike. Not only does it improve physical health and wellbeing but it has a hugely positive impact on mental health too. We are seeing huge demand across all our schemes as the public look for alternative ways to get to work so we're delighted to be able to work with all our partners to provide this for free."

To use a nextbike, simply register with a debit or credit card on the nextbike app or at any nextbike station across the city. For security, there is a one-off, £1 fee to register, which can be refunded.

More information can be read at: www.nextbike.co.uk/en/news/free-bikes-for-stirling-residents-through-bike-share

Anyone without a bank card or who needs extra support registering can contact Forth Environment Link for help: email georgi@forthenvironmentlink.org or 07923 277624.

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Stirling News

Summer long celebration of the 90s and britpop launched

PubLife, a UK-wide summer celebration of the '90s will take place in over 500 pubs, including 7 in Scotland.

Electric Boat Launch Event at the Falkirk Wheel

The much-loved Antonine passenger vessel, a trip boat serving one of Scotland’s top tourist attractions has received an electrifying makeover.

Family days out just got better with free entry for kids at Scone Palace

This summer, as school holidays get underway, families are invited to enjoy a day out at Scone Palace with their Kids Go Free promotion.

Scone Palace International Horse Trials

The inaugural Scone Palace International Horse Trials will take place from 21st–24th August 2025 in the stunning grounds of Scone Palace and Perth Racecourse.

Countdown begins: The AJ Bell Great Scottish Run returns to Glasgow in October

Scotland's greatest running event, the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run, will return to Glasgow on Sunday 5th October and they want everyone to 'Be Your Greatest'.

BTS fans take the spotlight in latest K Pop documentary heading to Vue

BTS Army: Forever We Are Young, a brand-new documentary celebrating the fans that helped catapult 21st century pop icons BTS into global stardom comes to Vue.

Plenty of summer family fun at Vue venues across Scotland

Family favourites and animated adventures are heading to the big screen this summer holiday at Vue venues across Scotland.

SAY Award opens submissions for eligible albums

Scotland’s national music prize – the Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award – has opened submissions for 2025’s £20,000 prize.

Innis & Gunn Joins Forces with Stirling Highland Games in a 3 Year Cultural Celebration

The Stirling Highland Games has proudly announced a new three-year partnership with one of Scotland’s most iconic brewing brands, Innis & Gunn.

Great value summer holiday activities at Dobbies Garden Centres

This summer, gather the whole family and head to Dobbies Garden Centres for a day of fun-filled activities that will keep costs down.

FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores returns on 5th and 6th July

Summerfest, the FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores, is back on the 5th and 6th of July with lots of things to see and do!

Earlybird tickets drive buzz for 2026 Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show

The biggest show of its kind in Scotland returns with Earlybird tickets and a give-away with headline sponsor Border Caravans!

July events at Dobbies Garden Centres

Check out July at Dobbies with it's Little Seedlings Club on rainforests and Grow How on pest control and healthy gardens!

Historic Environment Scotland calls for public stories for national wellbeing exhibition

Historic Environment Scotland is calling for people across the country to connect with heritage to boost their wellbeing as a part of a national campaign, Historic Places, Breathing Spaces.

Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 adds two new categories and voting deadline extended!

Scotland's hospitality industry and customers have spoken, and the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 has listened!

25th year of Refugee Festival Scotland gets underway

Refugee Festival Scotland gets underway today, kick-starting nine days of dance performances, film screenings, visual art and photography exhibitions and community events across the country.

Exclusive Superman screening at Vue venues in Scotland

Tickets are on sale for an exclusive Superman screening at Vue venues in Scotland, with fans in for an extra special treat to take home.

Acclaimed debut Only Here, Only Now from Tom Newlands chosen as Waterstones Book of the Month in Scotland

The paperback edition of Only Here, Only Now by Tom Newlands has just been released - and is already making waves.

Feedback sought on new Walk, Cycle, Live Stirling project

To mark Bike Week UK, people across Stirling are being encouraged to take part in a new survey that will help shape active travel in the area and support the shift to sustainable modes of transport.

Stirling BID team brighten up City Centre with Blooming Planters

Pollinator-friendly plants, funded and organised by Go Forth Stirling BID have added a welcome splash of colour across Stirling city centre.

Funding Boost for Charities at Scottish Building Society AGM

Scottish Building Society marked its Annual General Meeting (AGM) by announcing funding to support eight local charities and good causes across the country.

Classic car enthusiasts set to visit Loch Lomond Shores

Visitors are invited to come along and get up-close to some amazing cars, set against the beautiful backdrop of Loch Lomond, as part of a great day out.

Paws, play and heritage on parade

Bark by popular demand, the Gordon Setter Parade returns on Saturday 5th July as part of the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Scottish Game Fair, held at the stunning Scone Palace.

Dobbies hosts brand new Fairy Garden Tea Party

Dobbies Garden Centres are inviting families across the UK along to its stores on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th of June to spend a magical afternoon filled with fun activities and good food.

Stirling celebrates its rich history at the Walking of the Marches

Stirling’s rich history and heritage was celebrated at its annual Walking of the Marches, which dates back to at least the 12th century, on Saturday (31 May).

Have your say on plans for a sustainable transport system in Stirling

People will have the opportunity to shape a future transport system for Stirling that is fair, clean and affordable with the launch of a new consultation.

How to train your Dad in 4DX Cineworld enlists Gerard Butler

Cineworld is launching a brand new 4DX Father's Day gift experience, containing two 4DX tickets and ponchos, perfect for experiencing the new live-action "How to Train Your Dragon" film.

Summer of Roses: Free gardening workshop at Dobbies

Dobbies Garden Centres is hosting a free Rose-themed Grow How workshop this June, sharing top tips for caring for this beloved flowering plant.

William Wallace Running Festival seeks Teams of Bravehearts

Teams of runners have the chance to race through Scotland’s most historic battlefields and stunning landscapes during an exciting new event - the William Wallace Running Festival.

Cheers to 30 years: Scottish Bar and Pub Awards celebrate with public voting now open

Scotland's longest-running hospitality awards turn 30 - and they want you to have your say!

Popular Listings

Macrobert Arts Centre Stirling Castle The Albert Halls Stirling The National Wallace Monument Tolbooth Stirling

Free Bikes for Stirling Residents through Bike Share

Stirling residents will get free access to a fleet of 200 free bikes for the next three months as the number of people cycling surges due to Covid-19.

Sponsored Links

Latest Stirling News

Sponsored Links

Sponsored Links

Popular Events

Popular Listings