West London's first council-managed accessible cycle hub

The facility, at Pield Heath School, offers use of the new cycles on the school's cycle track. Students at the school, 12 other special schools in the borough, local organisations that work to improve residents' mobility and wellbeing, people living with dementia and their carers, and adults and young people with disabilities will all benefit through use of the hub. 

The Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Shehryar Ahmad-Wallana; and Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Deputy Leader of Hillingdon Council and Cabinet Member for Property, Highways and Transport, were joined by staff from the school and members of the council's dementia friendly cycling group to celebrate the launch of west London's first council-managed accessible cycle hub and try out the cycles.   

The £57,000 council-funded project not only provides specialist cycles and storage facilities, but also cycling instructors who will facilitate sessions, as necessary.    

Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Cabinet Member for Property, Highways and Transport, said: "I am delighted to support this wonderful initiative, which not only creates immediate opportunities for those who will benefit directly from the facility, but will also open up horizons and awaken opportunities that cycling can offer in terms of exercise and a sense of personal freedom.

"It will help so many people and supports the council's commitment to helping residents live healthy, active and independent lives.  

"I hope that pupils from Pield Heath House School, members of our dementia friendly cycling group, and the wider community will find much enjoyment and build strength and confidence through their use of the hub during the coming years."

Eryl D'Souza, Associate Principal at Pied Heath School, said: "Pield Heath considers it a privilege to be part of this exciting journey. We look forward to seeing how our partnership with Hillingdon Council can continue to encourage the local community to live life to the full."

Debbie Coker, 63 and a carer from Hayes attended the event. She said: "We love coming cycling getting out in the fresh air, seeing other people who are in a similar position and having a great time.  It's amazing what Hillingdon offers residents living with dementia and their carers."

To find out more about this scheme and how local groups can make use of the facility, email sportandphysicalactivity@hillingdon.gov.uk