More than 40 cycle courses have been delivered across Essex this summer holidays by the Sustainable Transport Team.
Over 200 people in Colchester, Chelmsford, Harlow and Uttlesford took part in 42 different courses. This included Learn to Ride, aimed at transforming non-riders into confident cyclists. Others, such as Bikeability Level 1, focused on maintenance, control and foundation skills.
More experienced cyclists took part in Bikeability Level 2 and 3 to navigate more complex road scenarios. For example, traffic lights, multiple lanes and cycle paths.
Feedback on the courses has been positive. Councillor Neil Reeve, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change at Uttlesford District Council, joined a led cycle ride from Saffron Walden Market Square.
He said:
The main takeaway for me was that, now I know better how to ride safely on public roads, I am much more confident in encouraging more people to use their bikes.
One parent praised the instructors of the course which she took part in with her daughter.
She said:
Lisa and Gavin were so knowledgeable and have given my daughter Lucy such confidence to try new approaches. I’ve been filled with useful tips.
Councillor Lee Scott, Cabinet Member for Highways Maintenance and Sustainable Transport at Essex County Council, said:
It's fantastic to hear about the success of our Safer, Greener, Healthier cycling courses this summer.
The positive feedback speaks volumes about the impact these courses have had and will help us with our ambition to encourage residents to walk or cycle, especially for short journeys, rather than automatically jump into their cars.
It’s worth remembering that these courses are open not just to children but to adults as well. We’ll be continuing with our free adult cycling training for the foreseeable future, and I would encourage as many of our residents as possible to get in touch and sign up.