West Yorkshire businesses take advantage of CityConnect grants to keep employees cycling this winter

8 January 2019

West Yorkshire’s businesses are taking advantage of funding via CityConnect’s Bike Friendly Business scheme to help keep their employees cycling during winter.

Evidence shows people who commute by bike typically take fewer days off sick, they arrive feeling more alert and are more productive, but there can be a decline in the number of individuals cycling to work during the colder months.

By offering facilities such as showers, changing areas and drying facilities businesses can prevent this winter drop off.

To date 15 businesses have successfully applied for grant funding through CityConnect to install free-standing drying cabinets for damp clothes ready for the ride home.

Cllr Kim Groves, Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Transport Committee, said: “It’s great to see organisations are continuing to take advantage of the Bike Friendly Business scheme, using the support and funding on offer to encourage employees to continue to cycle all year round.

“Being able to use changing and drying facilities can play a crucial role when it comes to people’s decision whether or not to cycle to work – particularly across the colder months. I’m looking forward to seeing more organisations taking part in this scheme across the region.”

Through CityConnect’s Bike Friendly Business scheme, which has been running since August 2016, employers can access expert advice and grants of up to £5,000 to encourage more staff to commute by bike, with bronze, silver and gold accreditation for organisations going the extra mile.

More than 200 organisations across the region have taken part so far, with nearly 60 receiving accreditation. Grant funding has been used to install bike parking, as well as providing pool bikes and cycle training.

CityConnect’s “Bike Friendly Businesses” have seen a 25% increase in cycling, thanks to the pioneering scheme.

Find out more information about CityConnect’s Bike Friendly Business scheme.