On your bike for savings

A COST-cutting green scheme in which council employees swop cars for pedal power will keep on rolling for a third year.

Cycle to Work is run in partnership with Cyclescheme and allows staff to get any make or model of bike and accessories at a 40 per cent discount under a 12-month hire agreement.

The initiative has saved the council around £14,000 since 2007 as government incentive schemes reduce the authority’s National Insurance contributions.

Hundreds of council employees have taken up the offer so far, producing business worth around £120,000 to the local economy, with partner cycle shops such as The Cyclery, Surosa, Skidmores and Rowbothams all benefiting.

Councillor Mohib Uddin, cabinet member for regeneration, said: We are delighted to be able to continue to offer the Cycle to Work scheme for a third year.

“There have been cost savings to the council, and the niche economy of cycle retailing has also benefited across the borough.

“The scheme has generated a lot of goodwill among employees, who have also saved around £25,000 in costs each year and feedback has been excellent.

“This venture supports many of our objectives and targets in terms of the benefits to the local environment and communities.

“Cycling is one of the most environmentally friendly and healthy travel modes there are, and we are delighted to promote it through this scheme.”