Free bicycle repair scheme up to value of £50 goes live in Scotland

Cyclists will be able to get free bicycle repairs worth up to £50 from today under a new scheme.

The Scotland Cycle Repair Scheme has gone live at about 100 shops across the country.

A total of 30,000 bike repairs or maintenance jobs will be part of the Scottish Government scheme on a first come, first served basis.

Registration is not required. Cyclists can simply go to the participating shops until the £1.5 million fund has expired.

The scheme is designed to get older bicycles back on the road and encourage active travel. Transport Secretary Michael Matheson said: “The Scotland Cycle Repair Scheme is a critical part of our Covid-19 response and a key element in our wider green recovery.

“This step will help encourage older bikes back on to our roads and onto the new temporary infrastructure that local authorities have delivered through the Spaces for People initiative.

“At the same time this will keep the many people who have rediscovered cycling during the lockdown period on their bikes through the winter.

“I’m pleased to see the increases in cycling and I’m confident active travel will play a big part in helping to manage demand on our public transport network.

“By choosing to walk, wheel or cycle, you are leaving space on public transport for those that need it most. At the same time, active travel improves our air quality, protects our climate and brings profound benefits to our physical and mental health.

“Through this and future initiatives we will continue to support people in making greener travel choices as we work to build an active nation.”

The scheme is being delivered through Cycling UK, which promotes the use of bicycles.

Suzanne Forup, Cycling UK’s head of development for Scotland, said: “This scheme will help to fix flat tyres, loose brakes and clunky gears to get people across Scotland on their bikes.

“We know that the coronavirus crisis has hit many people hard, so if you’d struggle to afford the repairs you need right now, this scheme has got you covered.

“Encouraging people to cycle – whether that’s to get to work, pop to the shops or enjoy our beautiful countryside – helps their health, wellbeing and their pockets.

“We’ve had a great response from Scotland’s fantastic 
and friendly bike shops, so we’d encourage anyone who needs that extra bit of help 
to get involved and get 
cycling.”