‘Wheels For Life Bike Donation Scheme’ rolled out in Holbeach to help tackle transport poverty and environmental waste

A new project which aims to give unloved and unused bikes a new lease of life to help tackle transport poverty in the area.

The ‘Wheels For Life Bike Donation Scheme’ has been rolled out in Holbeach and organisers are appealing for donations of unwanted bikes.

Active Lincolnshire, which is managing the project, hope the new scheme will help support people in transport poverty. The aim is to recycle 500 bikes in the first year of the campaign - which will save 7.5 tons of waste going into the environment every year.

The project, which is based at Tonic Health Hub in Holbeach, is appealing for members of the public to search garages and sheds for bikes in useable and repairable condition.

Michael Morris, Chair of Trustees at Tonic Health said: ‘’We are really looking forward to bringing the Wheels for Life project to Holbeach and the south of the county.

“Our mechanic, once in post, will work with some of our support group members, passing on skills and giving them another purpose in refurbishing the bicycles for the wider community benefit.

“Thanks to funding from BNA Charitable Incorporated Organisation for a portacabin which will be used as the workshop.’’

Once donations arrive at the hub in Boston Road South, they are repaired and fully serviced to ensure that they have a long service life when they reach their new homes. The bikes will be given to people across the county along with a cyclist starter kit which will include safety equipment and training.

Coun Tracey Carter, who represents the town on both the county and district authorities, said: ‘’I am excited to see the Wheels for Life hub coming to Holbeach.

“It is another benefit for residents, offering an opportunity for those who want to volunteer and being able to support local residents in transport poverty.

“The more we do to encourage the use of bikes the better, not just for personal health benefits both physically and mentally but also encouraging a greener way to travel in the area.‘’

If you are interested in donating a bike, visit the wheels for life website or contact Tonic Health’s Holbeach Hub.