Wheels on hire

Specially adapted bikes are available so everyone can enjoy the fun of cycling in the park

WHEELS will be available for all Oldhamers with the launch of a cycling centre of excellence.

Oldham Council is setting up the innovative scheme called Wheels for All at the flagship Alexandra Park to help residents enjoy the outdoors and get fit.

The new centre is linked to cycle path networks enabling access to other areas across the borough and has more than 30 adapted cycles, plus a range of mountain bikes and trikes, available.

The scheme is supported by Oldham Community Leisure, Oldham Community Health Services, Activate, Cycle Projects and Cycle Club Oldham.

Council chiefs say it will have great health benefits and is linked to health initiatives such as self-care and support towards obesity management.

Although in its infancy, it can be accessed by children and adults with disabilities, families and teenagers.

A launch event takes place on February 24 when Oldham Mayor Councillor David Jones will officially open the centre with Oldham Athletic’s mascot Chaddy the Owl.

The initiative was developed after a series of taster sessions.

Input was also received from Barrier Breakers, a group of young people aged from 10 to 19 years from mainstream and specialist education who design and implement projects to help improve things across the borough for disabled young people.

The information gathered will be used to ensure that the scheme is as inclusive and accessible as possible, fully meeting the needs of all.

The cycles are easy to use and qualified instructors are on hand.

A ‘bike borrow’ scheme is also being developed.

Councillor Jackie Stanton, cabinet member for adults and health, said: “The aim of the centre is to meet the needs of citizens so that families, groups, and schools can use the facilities in one of our most picturesque parks.

“Wheels for All will also enable families with disabled children to become a more integral part of the wider community.

“Cycling is an ideal way to keep in shape and stay healthy so give it a go!”