Foothold Cymru Launches Llanelli’s First Bike Library to Promote Sustainable Transportation and Healthy Living
Foothold Cymru is excited to announce the launch of their new community Bike Library, designed to provide easy access to bicycles for local residents. This initiative aims to foster sustainable transportation, encourage healthy living, and play a part in developing Carmarthenshire circular economy.
Funded by the Landfill Disposals Tax (LDT) Communities Scheme, a Welsh Government funding programme managed by WCVA, the Bike Library refurbishes second-hand, donated bikes, giving them a new lease of life for community use. This initiative engages the community with eco-friendly transportation and physical activity, making bicycles accessible to everyone and enhancing the quality of life in our community.
Residents and visitors can borrow a bike for up to three months for a small deposit, allowing them to use the bike for work commutes, opening the job market, or for family leisure activities, exploring the bike paths of Llanelli and the surrounding areas.
The Bike Library launch was attended by Cllr. Aled Vaughan Owen, Carmarthenshire County Council Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Decarbonisation and Sustainability, representatives from Cycling UK, local community groups and members of the community, all of whom had the opportunity to view the refurbished bikes and the Bike Library facilities.
Mike Theodoulou, Chief Executive of Foothold Cymru, said, "Our new bike library will give families and individuals the opportunity to use bikes without the cost of buying one. This will open the job market for those who struggle with public transport, but it will also provide families with healthy, fun activities."
Cllr. Aled Vaughan Owen added, "Not only does the Foothold Cymru Bike Library make cycling and sustainable transport accessible to all, but it’s also a great example of a successful circular economy project."
The Foothold Cymru Bike Library is open on Thursdays from 10 AM to 4.30 PM. It will also host a series of free bike maintenance workshops, fix it fairs and info sessions to ensure everyone can get the most from their bikes.
To find out more, visit www.footholdcymru.org.uk or call 07538 983 824 to borrow a bike.
