Cycling Scotland Newsletter promotes Pedal for Scotland and Conference

CYCLING
SCOTLAND
NEWS
ISSUE 12 SUMMER 2010

Mark
Beaumont
gets families
geared up
for freshnlo
Pedal for
Scotland
Scottish cycling star Mark
Beaumont got on his bike on
9th July to encourage families
to take part in Scotland’s
biggest bike ride, freshnlo
Pedal for Scotland.
Taking place on Sunday 12th of
September, freshnlo Pedal for Scotland
will introduce two new rides this year to
ensure cyclists of all ages and abilities
can take part. Cycling Scotland organises
the ride to encourage people to use their
bikes more often by showing that if you
can cycle from Glasgow to Edinburgh in a
matter of hours, then short trips of 5 miles
or less could easily be done on a bike.

Riders can now choose between the
51 Mile Challenge Ride, the 100 Mile
Sportive Ride and the Family Ride,
which is a completely trafﬁc free ride
based in Glasgow Green.

continue on page 3 >

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2101 Cycling Scotland Newsletter August_rev4.indd 1 16/8/10 22:21:10

freshnlo Pedal for Scotland (Cont.)
Mark Beaumont will be starting the event way to introduce children to cycling, >> Free goody bag
this year, and will be riding a special lap allowing them to practice their skills in a >> Free medal
of the Family Ride to give participants safe environment. Not only will children
the chance to ride alongside the record enjoy getting on their bikes on the day >> Free certificate
breaking cyclist who shot to fame after but there is a host of entertainment for >> Free cycle computer
becoming the fastest person to cycle everyone to enjoy at the event”.
>> Cycle skills course
around the world.
The Family Ride will provide a great day >> Face painting, juggling, uni-cycling and
Mark expressed his enthusiasm for helping out for parents with young children or other fun activities
to encourage more people to cycle, saying: those new to cycling. The ride is free to
>> Stabilisers Off!
enter, and in addition to the joys of traffic
“The freshnlo Pedal for Scotland bike ride Free sessions with qualified trainers
free cycling there are loads of other great
is a great event. It’s fantastic that Cycling for youngsters who want to ditch their
reasons to come along including:
Scotland have revamped the event to stabilisers.
now incorporate the three different rides, >> Live music by The Singing Kettle and
allowing people of all abilities and ages to other performances
take part. >> 7Stanes perform their bike stunt show
To register for any of the freshnlo Pedal for
The Family Ride is a leisurely day out for >> Ride with BBC1’s The Man Who Cycled Scotland rides visit: www.pedalforscotland.org
children and their parents. It’s the perfect the World Mark Beaumont

Cycling Scotland’s annual and the benefits that cycling can bring.
Cycling conference will return this year Friday 5th of November will feature a day
for professionals at the City Chambers in
on 5th November, and will form
Scotland Annual part of a 2 day conference with
Edinburgh, and on Saturday 6th November
there will be a conference aimed at cycle

Conference to Spokes and CTC, as part of the
UK-wide series of Cycle Nation
campaigners.

Ian Maxwell of Spokes, welcomed the
partner with Conferences.
opportunity to work in partnership on the
conference, commenting:
The conference will bring together active
Cycle Nation in travel professionals, campaigners, volunteers
and politicians to learn from each other and
“Campaigning ideas have no boundaries,
and this gathering of cycle professionals
Edinburgh gain a deeper understanding about how best
to develop and promote cycling in Scotland
and activists in Edinburgh will be a great
chance to swap examples of what works.

2


confidently up and down steep terrain on mountain bike fans here, so it’s great
Go Mountain dirt tracks and negotiate obstacles. to be able to offer a scheme that can
help people move from spectating to
Bike launched It also helps riders develop their personal
skills such as planning and navigating
participating in an activity which has
massive benefits in terms of increasing

at Fort William journeys, as well as bike maintenance so
bikers can perform trailside repairs. The
course also includes a section on sharing
levels of physical activity and contributing
towards the growth of an industry which

Mountain Bike the countryside responsibly with other
users, so that mountain bikers, walkers
brings in £119 million pounds to the
Scottish economy each year.”

World Cup and horse riders can share outdoor
spaces harmoniously.
The Go Mountain Bike launch was well
received by the media and received coverage
from STV and the Press and Journal.
Cycling Scotland’s brand new The Go Mountain Bike Skills course
cycling proficiency scheme for attracted around 240 kids and others who
were inspired by the mountain biking elite,
mountain bikers was successfully
with each receiving a certificate.
launched on 5th and 6th of June
at the Fort William Mountain Bike The course was developed by Cycling
World Cup. Scotland’s Jim Riach, a founder member
of the Scottish Mountain Bike Leaders
As the World Cup attracts the best mountain
Association (SMBLA) and written by
bikers in the world to Scotland each year,
SMBLA committee member Brian Salvona,
it provided an excellent platform to launch
and the Scottish National Downhill
the new training scheme designed to give
Mountain Bike Coach Chris Ball.
people the skills and confidence they
need to get the most out of the country’s There are now 40 accredited centres
fantastic mountain bike tracks and trails. across Scotland with instructors who are
trained to deliver the scheme. Successful
Taster sessions for the course ran all
pilots of Go Mountain Bike have taken
weekend at the Developing Mountain Biking
place in Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Golspie,
in Scotland expo, giving the hordes of
Laggan and Strathclyde Park and the
mountain bike fans that flocked to the Nevis
scheme is now available across Scotland.
Range the chance to get a feel for what Go
Mountain Bike can offer. Cycling Scotland Chief Executive Ian Aitken
commented on the launch, saying:
The 5-level training course is designed to
help riders develop their riding skills so they “Cycling Scotland is really pleased to be
can cope with challenging and technical able to launch Go Mountain Bike here
Cycling Scotland’s Alasdair Marshall administers
terrain, showing them how to cycle at the World Cup. There are so many a Go Mountain bike taster session.

They are also a really good example of This year’s conference will be based can play in increasing public awareness and
how the various national organisations around 3 main themes: increasing participation rates of cycling.
can work together, bringing together CTC,
CYCLING STRATEGY AND POLICY ACTIVE LIVING AND CYCLING
Cyclenation, Cycling Scotland and Sustrans
to focus on the challenges ahead”. This session will focus on the latest This session will look closely at the role that
developments in local and national cycling interventions in the workplace, schools and
The professionals’ conference on 5th strategy and policy, the implications of communities can play in helping increase
November will present a series of informative the Cycling Action Plan for Scotland and rates of cycling. The wider benefits that
and inspiring plenary speakers from a wide implementation of the guidance in Cycling cycling can bring to settings will also be
range of different roles within the world of by Design. discussed in this session.
cycling. Speakers include Marshal Poulton,
Head of Transport for City of Edinburgh CYCLING EVENTS
To register for email updates about the conference
Council, David Middleton, Chief Executive This session will look at the economic impact head to: www.cyclingscotlandconference.org
of Transport Scotland and Phillip Darnton of major cycling events at a local, regional where places for the conference will go on sale at
OBE, Chair of Cycling England. and national level as well as the role they the end of August.

3


Cycling Action
Plan for Scotland
published along
with new funding
A new government plan to make
Scotland a nation of cyclists was
unveiled during Bike Week this
summer. The Scottish Government
published the Cycling Action Plan for
Scotland (CAPS) on the 25th of June,
laying out its plans to get more Scots
on their bikes and leaving the car at
home.
The plan sets out a number of actions
for stakeholders and local authorities in
Scotland to carry out and it is supported by
new funding for projects covering new cycle
infrastructure, children’s cycle training and
Children’s Cycle Training receives new funding as part of CAPS.
grants for employers to improve facilities for
those cycling to work.
Connect2 project, which on completion will of all three levels of cycle training, and
CAPS was launched by Transport, allow cyclists to travel between the city centre, will work with Road Safety Scotland, the
Infrastructure and Climate Change Minister the Clyde riverside promenade, Kelvingrove Scottish Government and key stakeholders
Stewart Stevenson MSP while opening a Park and the West End on trafﬁc free routes. to establish a new Cycle Training Standards
newly completed section of the National Cycle and Delivery Support Group. This new group
GRANT SCHEMES
Network between Kincardine and Culross in will formulate a plan by the end of 2010 to
Fife. Stevenson commented: “Scotland has the £150,000 will be allocated to a loan support deliver a coordinated approach to training, an
toughest climate change legislation anywhere scheme to help private businesses improve increase in the number of volunteers available
in the world and as our climate change delivery workplace cycling facilities. The fund is to deliver training and a support network for
plan made clear we need to decarbonise intended to support Cycling Scotland’s Cycle the volunteers and Local Authorities offering
almost all road transport by 2050. Friendly Employer scheme, and will be run in the three levels of training.
partnership with the Energy Saving Trust.
This means persuading more motorists to get Mairi Blair, assistant director of Road Safety
out of their cars and getting more people to Businesses will be able to apply for an Scotland, welcomed the development,
cycle – that’s why we have set the challenging interest free loan to upgrade workplace commenting: “Road Safety Scotland fully
target for 2020 that 10% of all journeys taken facilities such as bike parking, lockers or endorses and supports the establishment
in Scotland be made by bike.” showers so that they are able to meet the of a Cycle Training Standards and Delivery
Cycle Friendly Employer criteria. This will be Support Group in Scotland.
NEW PROJECTS AND FUNDING run in tandem with the existing small grants A stronger focus on a more co-ordinated
£3.9 million of new funding for cycling initiatives scheme for Cycle Friendly Employer that approach to child cycle training in Scotland
was announced by the Scottish Government is run in conjunction with Healthy Working is necessary in order to provide the level of
alongside the publication of CAPS. Lives, which allows organisations to apply for support needed by local delivery partners in
grants for promotion and incentive measures. the provision of good quality training delivered
INFRASTRUCTURE Both of these funding sources will be open by well-supported and trained volunteers.
£2.5 million of investment will be made in for applications from Autumn 2010 - check
As a key stakeholder, RSS will ensure the
cycling infrastructure. The money will be out www.cyclingscotland.org for application
Group’s commitment to maintaining road
administered by Sustrans for improvements to forms and funding criteria later this year.
safety priorities and links to Curriculum for
the National Cycle Network in Scotland, with
CYCLE TRAINING Excellence across the cycle training levels.”
an emphasis on connecting existing sections
of the network and providing short links to £300,000 will be invested in children’s
To download and read the full Cycling Action
create more joined-up cycleways. £500,000 cycle training. Cycling Scotland will take a
Plan for Scotland, go to www.scotland.gov.uk
will also go to Glasgow City Council for its coordinating role for the national delivery

4


Why I keep on cycling during
the winter… by Chris Johnson
During the winter months the Initially coming to cycling via the sport route it quality set of lights to my winter bike, which
number of cyclists on the streets is clear that fun was my priority. By now with also has a set of full length mudguards. My
drops sharply, but Cycling an office based desk job and a well developed local bike store stocked a good range and
Scotland’s Education and appreciation of cakes I’m probably most gave me quality advice based on my (thrifty)
Training Officer Chris Johnson driven by the health angle (that cyclists enjoy budget.
bodies that are 10yrs younger also appeals
explains why he thinks cycling to I am also immensely proud of my yet-to-be-
to my vanity). Cost is always a nice thought,
work is worth sticking with even patented ‘disco helmet’. When I noticed my
but I still pay for the pleasure of owning a car.
during the Scottish winter… local supermarket was selling emergency
Environment is a useful ally as carbon counting
flashing LEDs at value prices I snapped them
There are several key benefits attributed to is what motivates my previously bike-phobic
up and strapped them to my helmet. These
cycle commuting - health, environment, cost partner, but it doesn’t directly make me feel
have two purposes, as a back up should my
and fun. As I sit contemplating this on a fine smug.
main lights fail, but also the front light allows
summer’s day (albeit a wet one), it’s simply a
So, all good. But come winter time with its me to make eye contact with drivers and
matter of putting these in order.
dark streets, the penetrating cold and slimy ensure my safe passage. A yellow vest over
drizzle it can be harder to stay focused on my regular jacket completes the effect, and
these benefits. folds away easily to take up no room.

Luckily, I find there is additional benefit Choosing clothing has never been a problem
so great it dwarfs them all: practicality. either. On a bike your hands get cold, your
feet get cold, and your head/neck can be
Cycle commuting in built up areas is generally
cold. Otherwise, as long as you are moving
by far the quickest, easiest and most satisfying
you are generating warmth and there is no
way of getting around town. I’ve tried leaving
reason why your regular winter clothes aren’t
the office at 5pm in December, shivering
enough. It’s easy to pick up a pair of fleecy
at the bus stop while passing taxis spray
builders glovers, some waterproof overshoes
water all over the pavements and it was a bit
/ thick socks, and a cyclists buff which can
miserable. The 44 bus, covering a journey of
be worn around the neck, or under a helmet.
just three and a half miles takes an astonishing
If it is raining then waterproof trousers are a
forty minutes, and going from shivering on
handy accessory.
the streets to collectively sweating under all
my layers in a dour huddle didn’t increase my I am fortunate enough to have a designated
enjoyment much either. ‘winter bike’ so maintenance is easy – I give
it a service in October, then just throw soapy
I have given the driving thing a go too. Other
water over it occasionally and keep the
people make it look so appealing: you chill
transmission lubricated, and before I know it
out, listen to the radio, relax in your own
spring is here and after a proper clean it can
space, glide along the city streets, but even
hibernate through summer again.
slower than the 44 bus! Arriving home forty
minutes late with dinner spoilt by raised stress Frosty roads can require a bit of extra caution,
levels is more the reality, and getting out of and it is often worthwhile using different
bed 20minutes early to defrost the windows roads if you know your regular route will not
is never fun. have been treated. Most of Scotland’s big
cities now have excellent maps showing
Conversely, riding a bike is quick, direct,
various cycle routes and roads, so finding an
and a great way to remove the stress of
alternative isn’t too tricky.
the day.
There is no reason why winter should be a
Being active means you barely feel the cold,
time to hang up your wheels, all the benefits
and it’s cheap and easy to equip yourself with
are still there, and as you speed home after
the right accessories. Keeping warm and
Cycling Scotland’s a long day, arriving fresh and relaxed, you
Chris Johnson on his being seen are the key elements. I attach a
commute to work. can pity those stuck in traffic.

5


Scottish Gas
Scottish Gas has collaborated with “A Better
Way to Work”, a project run by the Bike
Station to promote cycling, as well as walking

awarded for and public transport, as a convenient means
of commuting to and from work.

commitment The Bike Station has run Dr Bike sessions
on site, to help employees get their bikes in
good working order. The service was well-

to cycling used by regular cyclists and also encouraged
many people to dig their bikes out of the
shed and cycle in to work especially for the
of cycling to staff members; through
their Generation Green programme the
organisation has demonstrated its social
Scottish Gas in Edinburgh has become responsibility credentials by encouraging
Dr Bike sessions. By giving their unused
the biggest private sector workplace Scottish schools and communities to
bikes a new lease of life it is hoped this will
to achieve the Cycle Friendly Employer recognise the benefits of cycling as part of
encourage staff to cycle to work more often.
Award to date. This is a fantastic an overall approach to green living.
A Better Way to Work staff were also on
award for the organisation which has Generation Green makes sustainability fun
hand to encourage employees to try out the
demonstrated a clear commitment to and engages children about environmental
demonstration bikes that they brought along
encouraging more staff to cycle to work. issues. Schools register with the programme
to remind people how much fun cycling can
online at www.generationgreen.co.uk and
be - one Scottish Gas employee got on a bike
earn green leaves through completing green
for the first time in 26 years. Employees can
tasks, such as setting up a green notice
also benefit from free cycle training, the free
board, or conducting an energy saving
loan bike service, as well as other incentives
survey. These leaves can then be redeemed
to make an active journey to work.
for educational rewards from birdboxes to
Wendy Graham, Travel Choice Advisor with bicycles and equipment. Since its launch in
A Better Way to Work said “We are delighted May 2009, Scottish primary schools working
to have had the opportunity to work with towards Cycle Friendly School Awards have
Scottish Gas. The enthusiasm shown by the already benefited greatly from the Generation
organisation and their employees has been Green programme, which shares many of
tremendous”. the messages around the benefits of healthy
and sustainable living.
Kevin Roxburgh, Managing Director of
Scottish Gas said: “The health and wellbeing Cycling Scotland is greatly impressed
of our employees is high on the agenda at with the ongoing work at Scottish Gas to
Scottish Gas, so to be recognised as the establish cycling as a mainstream travel
L-R: Livia Dyckhoff, Training Coordinator at Scottish Gas;
Kevin Whitehead from Dr Bike and John Young, Health & largest private sector workplace to receive choice that can deliver great benefits not just
Safety Co-ordinator at Scottish Gas. the Cycle Friendly Employer Award is a to the employer, but also the employee and
significant achievement for us. wider community.
The 750 employees at the site, which
“We are constantly looking for ways to Cycling Scotland’s Chief Executive, Ian
hosts the organisation’s headquarters and
encourage staff to adopt a healthier lifestyle, Aitken applauded Scottish Gas for taking
a customer contact centre, benefit from
from free bike repairs to Zumba classes, the initiative.
improved, secure cycle storage facilities,
as part of our commitment to the Healthy
ample shower and changing provisions, as Organisations and schools can register
Working Lives programme.”
well as a host of incentives and promotional online for Cycle Friendly Awards at www.
activity to support their commute to work. Scottish Gas not only promotes the benefits cyclingscotland.org.

European Mobility Week 16 - 22 September
European Mobility Week is an awareness raising campaign the town centre promoting active and sustainable travel, as well as
aiming at promoting the use of public transport, cycling and Rickshaws transporting members of the public and a ‘in town without
walking and encouraging European cities to promote these my car day’. Glasgow also has activity planned - check the website
modes of transport and to invest in new infrastructure. for more details.

Activity will be taking place in cities all around Europe including here European Mobility Week will take place from the 16 to the 22 September.
in Scotland. Perth will be taking part by having a series of stalls in For more information visit www.mobilityweek.eu

6


Developing Mountain Biking
conference set for October
A new project set up to coordinate the development of
Scotland’s burgeoning mountain biking industry will hold a
conference this autumn to bring together all stakeholders
in this diverse sector.
Bike Events Scotland is Scotland’s most
Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland is calling on professionals from the
comprehensive cycling events calendar.
tourism, outdoor access and sports development sectors to attend their ﬁrst
Developed by Cycling Scotland, CTC, Forestry
annual conference on October 28th. The event will be held at the Perth Concert
Commission Scotland, Sustrans and Visit
Hall and will focus on identifying ways to capitalise upon the considerable
Scotland, the calendar diplays hundreds of
success of mountain biking as an activity in Scotland. Mountain biking tourism
cycling events across Scotland of all kinds.
in Scotland brings £119million pounds per annum to the Scottish economy
according to a study commissioned by Scottish Enterprise. The sector employs Here’s a selection of upcoming events from
3470 full time staff and the 7stanes Mountain Bike Centres in the south of the calendar, with hundreds more online:
Scotland generate £9million to the Scottish economy and are visited by over
400,000 people each year. MOUNTAIN BIKING
2010 10hr Mountain Bike Marathon
Based in the North East of
21 Scotland this race is an endurance
AUG
format with teams and individuals
competing to see who can complete the most
laps in 10 hours.

OFF ROAD CYCLING
2010 The Chase
A 30-40 mile off-road duathlon
25 in the stunning Trossachs
SEP countryside combining two 12 mile
cycling stages and a 6 to 10 mile
orienteering challenge on foot, plus free food,
drink and entertainment at the medieval-style
after event party.

2010 FAMILY
16 Katrine Colours Cycle
Enjoy the autumn at Loch Katrine
OCT
The conference will feature a keynote speech from record breaking round-the- with the whole family. A 12 mile
world cyclist Mark Beaumont, alongside presentations from a variety of experts cycle around Trossachs pier, cycle hire and
involved in all aspects of mountain biking. Scottish Minister for Public Health and boat trip included.
Sport Shona Robison MSP will be opening the conference.
2010 BEGINNER
The conference is intended as a two-way exchange of information featuring
presentations from speakers whilst also capturing the opinions and ideas of the 6 Women Only CTC Ayrshire Ride
12-15mile Women only CTC
delegates as to how the project should move forward over the coming years. NOV
beginners ride starting at Fenwick
Delegates will get the opportunity to raise their questions to a select panel of
War Memorial.
some of the most inﬂuential voices within mountain biking in Scotland. There will
also be workshops for all attendees based on the 3 key strands of the strategic
framework – increasing participation, sporting development & success and
2010 GROUP RIDE
Spokes Sunday
tourism and economic development. 5 This monthly group ride takes you
For regular updates and to pre-register for the conference, please visit DEC
on a free guided bike ride along
www.developingmountainbikinginscotland.com cycle paths and quiet roads to destinations in
The Lothians, Fife and The Borders.

7


Most successful
Bike Week yet
This year’s Team Green Britain Bike leading up to Bike Week, including smaller
Week took place from the 19th to the rides and training sessions as well as bigger
27th of June and was a huge success in events such as the Fort William Mountain
Scotland. Scottish participation numbers Bike Cup.
increased by 85% from last year, with
Cycling Scotland worked in partnership with
72,000 participants taking part in various
Bike Week HQ and Team Green Britain, and
events from beginner and family rides to
headed up the PR campaign in Scotland, co-
long distance rides, competitions, bike to
organised the workshops in Glasgow and Perth
work days and bike breakfasts.
to help new event organisers plan their events,
Other Bike Week opportunities included free arranged a national radio advertising campaign
cycle safety checks and charity rides as well for Scotland and attended events throughout
as fairs and exhibitions in cities and towns the week. Cycling Scotland teamed up with
across Scotland. Events were organised by the Clan Cycle Stunt Team to create a cycle
individuals, companies, charities and other zone as part of the Royal Highland Show, with
organisations, and over 270 events across thousands of visitors flocking to see the stunt
Scotland were listed on the Bike Week shows and have a go on a cycle skills course
Cycling Scotland & The Clan attended the
website. This year also saw various events over the final four days of Bike Week. Royal Highland Show during Bike Week.

Bike Club successfully launched in Scotland
Bike Club, a program that offers support Speaking at the launch event, he said: include organising local networking events.
and funding to enable cycling-based “Cycling gives you the opportunity to develop The first community cycling event, which took
learning experiences among children and self-esteem. It seems to me that beginning place in Kelvingrove Park on 28th July, was
young people, was successfully launched this project in Scotland will give the young attended by Formula 1 legend Nigel Mansell,
on the 30th of June in Glasgow City people the opportunity to build that self- as a pit stop on his UK-wide charity ride for
Chambers by Dr. Harry Burns, Scotland’s esteem. I am very happy to do this today and UK Youth.
Chief Medical Officer. support this.” The event also featured the 7 Stanes stunt
Bike Club uses cycling to create opportunities Scotland’s two Bike Club development officers display team, bike demos from FreeWheel
for learning and involvement among children, Victoria Leiper and Amy Hickman support Bike North, Dr Bike sessions and a North Shore
young people and their families. Small Club applicants around Glasgow, Edinburgh, course from the Bike Station.
grants are available to youth clubs, young Falkirk, Fife, East Lothian, Midlothian and
g
Nigel Mansell on his charity ride
people’s groups and schools seeking to West Lothian. Bike Club’s immediate plans
Club s for UK Youth during Bike Week.
Week
establish cycling-related activities within their
communities.
The programme was set up through
cooperation between community learning
and health experts ContinYou, UK Youth
and CTC, the national cyclists’ organisation.
Bike Club’s expansion to Scotland has been
made possible by funding from Asda’s Pedal
Power campaign. At the launch Dr. Burns
spoke to key decision-makes within youth
work, education, community development
and transport policy sectors, about the
public health challenges facing Scotland,
and identifying cycling as an ideal way
for children and young people to develop
healthy lifestyles.

8


Skyride returns to Glasgow
This year’s Skyride will be taking place on Sunday entertainment such as music, fancy dress and sporting challenges.
the 22nd of August in Glasgow. As part of Skyride a series of local rides have been organised by
British Cycling, Scottish Cycling and Glasgow Life.
The event route will take riders along the River Clyde and is hoping
to attract thousands of people to take the unique opportunity to take The Skyride Local rides are small group cycle rides which will also be
their bikes for spin round the city centre without a car in sight. taking place around the UK in the run up to and after the main Skyride
events in Scotland. These group rides vary in levels (beginners to
The Skyride route will be transformed into a traffic-free zone for the experienced riders) and are designed to encourage regular biking.
day which will give cyclists the opportunity to enjoy the city on two
wheels with friends and family. Skyride is taking place across the UK Skyride Local events are taking place all over Glasgow, with a variety
in 12 locations in 10 cities, and each event will also have bike-based of routes and distances to suit any level of ability.

Check out the Skyride Local rides happening over the coming months.

2010 Campsie & City views 2010 East End Parks Park and Tollcross Park. A great opportunity
Ride : Well Ride : Steady to see more of what Glasgow has to offer for
29 This 19.4 mile route heads north
3 A route linking up three of those who like an adventure.
AUG and uses a mixture of terrains - OCT Glasgow’s parks in the East,
along canal paths, a few roads and even an starting from Glasgow Green, the route
old railway line. heads on North East to one of the east ends 2010 Riverside Ramble
Ride : Well
finest parks, Alexandra Park.
24 This 19mile ride uses the famous
Pollok Park Ride OCT Clyde as it’s focal point, following
2010
Ride : Easy 2010 Four Corners of the Park the south bank west to Renfrew, before cross
5 An easy, totally traffic-free, out- Ride : Strong the river at the Erskine Bridge and following
SEP and-back riverside cruise from the
10 A ride through both rural and urban National Cycle Network Route 7 back along
futuristic Science Centre in the west to the OCT parts of the city passing through the northern bank of the river.
People’s Palace at Glasgow Green. Ruchill Park, Springburn Park, Hogganfield

2010 Canals Galore
Ride : Steady
12 One for the water lover, this 10.6
SEP mile ride showcases the historic
and picturesque canal network centred
around Kirkintilloch the “Canal Capital of
Scotland”.

2010 River Clyde Ride
Ride : Easy
19 Totally traffic-free, flat riding and
SEP tarmac paths make this leisurely
six-miler suitable for beginners and families
on all kinds of bike.

2010 Visit to Campsie Glen
Ride : Strong
26 Undulating route from Kelvingrove
SEP Park, initially following the River
Kelvin then out through Maryhill and the
suburbs of Bearsden and Milngavie over the
moor to Strathblane.

9


Would bringing the Tour de
France to Scotland get more
people cycling?
The Tour de France started But the experience was a little
in Rotterdam this year, and it disappointing, for two reasons.

came as something of a culture First, it didn’t offer a very good view
shock to be at un Grand Départ of the race - we were too high, way
de la Grande Boucle and to be above the French TV helicopters, who
surrounded by bikes. (understandably enough) desire the best
the other countries he claims are bidding,
vantage point. Second, from the air, the
including Budapest, Qatar, Japan, Quebec
Tour de France didn’t even look like a
I did mean to write that. I mean, yes, you and Estonia.
bike race - it looked like a car race, with
have the 200 riders who compete in the
hundreds of cars and motorbikes in front, The big question, of course, is, why
Tour - and yes, they do so on bikes - but
and hundreds more behind a tiny, just would you want to bring the Tour de
they exist within the hermetically sealed
about visible, pack of cyclists. France to Scotland?
bubble of the Tour de France.
Back to Rotterdam, though. There, as in any For many cities or countries that bid for the
For those of us who work on the race - in
Dutch city, there were bikes everywhere, Grand Départ, it seems to be primarily a
my case as a journalist - the experience
and it was easy to see why. The facilities marketing and money-making exercise.
of the Grand Départ is invariably one
for cyclists are remarkably good - roads With a worldwide TV audience of two billion,
of negotiating horrendously traffic-
seem to be an after-thought to cycle lanes, and with the country itself forming the
clogged streets, banking on our media
rather than the other way around. And at backdrop to the action, there can be few,
accreditation - or the sticker that attests
junctions and roundabouts cyclists have if any, more effective ways of showcasing
to that on the windscreen - gaining us
right of way over cars - a fact that, again your country.
access to the inner sanctum.
ironically, almost caught out several official
But when London bid for the 2007 start - a
In other words, the prevailing experience of Tour vehicles.
prologue in London, then a first road stage
covering, and indeed of being at the Tour
Visiting Rotterdam for the Grand Départ to Canterbury - they did so under a different
de France, can be one of being stuck in,
was Paul Bush, the chief operating officer premise, and one that initially struck the
or surrounded by, petrol-guzzling cars and
of EventScotland. Bush also attended the Tour organisers as quirky and original.
other vehicles.
Grand Départ in London, when the Tour
Ken Livingstone, the then mayor, said that
Ironic, isn’t it? started there in 2007, and it had given him
he wanted the Tour to promote cycling. Not
an idea: why not bid to bring the Tour to
On this year’s Tour, the impression cycling as a sport, but as a participation
Scotland?
was reinforced when, on one stage, I activity, and means of transport, in the
was privileged enough to be offered a Slowly, that idea has been worked upon, city. “My vision for London is a city where
helicopter ride. It was an opportunity I with Bush meeting Christian Prudhomme, increasing levels of cycling will create a
couldn’t pass up - we’ve all seen the aerial the Tour director, and receiving a positive more sustainable transport system and
shots of the riders in full fl ight against response. It was Prudhomme, in fact, improve the health of Londoners,” said
the backdrop of the beautiful French who first flagged up the suggestion to Livingstone when London’s successful
countryside, or of the peloton splitting in the media, mentioning Scotland’s interest bid was confirmed. “I am certain that the
two as it negotiates a roundabout. in hosting the Tour in the same breath as Tour de France will inspire people to take

10


New website for path
and active travel
network practitioners
to be launched soon
A new website that will enable
professionals to find information
and share good practice for the
development of path and active
travel networks is due to be
launched this autumn.

up cycling to get around London or as a London wants the Tour back - and the
leisure pursuit.” feeling is mutual, with Prudhomme, who,
three years on, continues to enthuse about
The Tour de France responded by saying
the “magical” London visit, promising that
that they had never heard that one before! The site is being developed by the Scottish
it’s a question of “when,” not “if.” It has
Indeed, I remember being in Strasbourg, for Access Technical Information Network
been rumoured that a 2014 return is likely.
the start of the 2006 race, and attending a (SATIN), which is a consortium of active
dinner at which the Tour organisers spoke As for Scotland, Bush is aiming to bid travel organisations comprised of Cycling
glowingly of London’s ambitions to use for a two- or three-day Grand Départ Scotland, Paths for All, Sustrans, SNH,
Forestry Commission Scotland, Falkirk
their race to promote everyday bicycle some time between 2014 and 2020.
Council and a wide range of regional and
use - they seemed delighted by it. Why local stakeholder groups.
And, as with London, he seems determined
other cities haven’t traditionally had similar
to make the bid as much about promoting Networks and routes are an essential factor
ambitions, I don’t know. in getting more people to use active travel
cycling as it will, inevitably, be a marketing
modes such as walking and cycling more
It could be because, in many European and money-making exercise.
often, and SATIN was formed to ensure
towns and cities, cycling is already very that good practice in the development of
“The Tour coming to Scotland would have
popular and culturally more acceptable these networks can be shared nationwide.
huge economic impact (its two days in the
than in the UK. It could also be because The website will offer comprehensive
south of England in 2007 generated an
the Tour de France is woven so deeply into guidance on the full delivery process,
estimated £123m) and phenomenal media
the fabric of mainland Europe that it is seen with information on design guidelines,
value,” said Bush in Rotterdam. “Being in funding streams, technical aspects
purely as a major sporting event, with no
Holland, and seeing the number of people such as drainage, surfaces and signing,
real spin-offs (other than the marketing
on bikes, and the hundreds of thousands construction techniques and maintenance
opportunities afforded the places it visits).
watching for free, makes you also realise schedules to provide a ‘cradle to grave’
guide on delivering outdoor access and
But, whether by accident or design, you how the Tour can be a fantastic way of
active travel networks to the highest
could certainly argue that the Tour did promoting cycling, health, fitness and standard.
have a positive and lasting effect on sustainability.”
The SATIN working group will meet in
cycling in London. Inverness for the 3rd project meeting of
Very true. And if there is one lesson to take
2010 to discuss detailed content for the
Cycling as a means of transport has from London, it is that the Tour organisers
website before the site is launched later
increased exponentially, facilities are might be initially surprised by, but very in the year. If you think your organisation
improving, and the city’s first mass bike-hire receptive to, a proposal that places the would benefit from being involved in the
scheme, based on Paris’s Vélib’ scheme, humble promotion of cycling and the bike SATIN project, you can apply to become
has just been launched. at its very heart. a member organisation by emailing Peter
Leslie at peterleslie@cyclingscotland.org

11


‘Give Me Cycle Space’

Noticeboard campaign - Match Funding
for 2011
Cycling Scotland is running the ‘Give Me
New funding availa Cycle Space’ campaign again in 2011,
ble for
community cycling and is seeking local authorities interested
Scottish Local Authority projects a

Cycle Forum to be re-instated Cycling Scotland in match funding the activity in their area.
in
has new fundin The highly successful social marketing
streams available g
d to calls
Cycling Scotland has responde groups implement
to help commun
ity campaign aims to break down barriers
from Scottish loca l authorities to re-instate cycling projects in
their to cycling to school by using a mixture
l authority local area.
the national cycling forum for loca of outdoor adver tising to create ‘Cycle
officers. The forum played a key role in helping Cycle Friendly Co Friendly Zones’ around schools, which
mmunities Fund
cycling to
local authority staff responsible for The Cycle Friendly
Communities Fund are designed to encourage drivers to give
communicate with each other, and also with be open for applica will
children space and extra consideration so
tions from August 20
rnment.
key stakeholders and national gove
10,
and is set up to fun
d projects that pro they can cycle to school safely. Cycling
The forum has not met since around 2004 health gain, supp mote
Scotland has delivered the campaign in
ort the commun
Scotland’s ity,
and was indentified during Cycling support individual
development, promo partnership with Glasgow, Edinburgh,
recent best value review as something that cycling and de
monstrate innovati
te
East Renfrewshire, East Dunbartonshire,
troduced on.
stakeholders felt should be re-in Grants of up to
£500 0 are availa North Lanarkshire, Moray, Orkney, East
to improve com munications between key for individual pro ble
Ayrshire, North Ayrshire, South Ayrshire
jects. Check ww
will be held w.
players in active travel. The forum cyclingscotland.or
g for criteria and Fife councils in the last two years,
before the end of 2010, and arrangements for application forms. and
and is now accepting match funding
e meetings
the timing and regularity of futur Online Journey Pla proposals from local authorities for
will be decided at the initial forum. nning Data Collecti
on the 2011 campaign. Contact Andrew
Cycling Scotland is
also seeking expressi
of interest from comm ons Pankhurst on 0141 229 5354 or
unity groups to assis
with data collection t andrewpan khurs t@cyc lingsc otland.org
on local cycling rou
embership
tes to find out more.
Cycling Scotland M
and infrastructure
for the online cyc
journey planner le
me mber www.cyclestreets.ne
has 34 t
Cycling Scotland Contact info@cycling
keholde r scotland.org for mo
a wide range of sta re
organisations from
information.
ditional
hip is open to ad
groups. Me mbers on 0141
ntact Linda Peter s
organisations - co
details.
229 5350 for more

nstream Cycle Hire in London
Making Cycling Mai London Mayor Boris Johnson unveiled a new
ucation
ng Mainstream ed w
The Making Cycli cycle hire scheme in London on 29th July,
en pre se nte d succes sfully ,
package has be nals from hoping to emulate the success of schemes
s
to groups of transport profes sio such as Velib in Paris. There are currently
consultants an d stude nts. y
local authorities, 5000 hire bikes available from special
Building on thi s succes s this ye
ar Cycling
directly with
docking stations across the city, and over
C t t
Contact
ing to work
Scotland is se ek 12,000 people have already signed up to
to provide
es /National Pa rks
Cycling Scotland
Local Authoriti the scheme. Users pay a £1 access fee to
m of more be spoke training 24 Blythswood Square, Glasgow G2 4BG
support in the for use the bikes, which are then free to use for Newsletter written by Andrew Pankhurst
area. To lea rn
designed by: macid.eu

days locate d within your local the first half an hour, then charged in hourly
and Janika Fuchs.
leslie@
ter Le slie at peter
more contact Pe increments from there onwards. Find out
rg or visit ou r website at
cyclingscotland.o more about the scheme at www.tfl.gov.uk Visit our website at
wnload the
ww w.cyclings cotland.org to do www.cyclingscotland.org
ort.
application for supp

12


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