Staff and councillors got on their bikes for Cycle September and pedalled their way to better health, saving money and protecting the planet.
Cycle September hosted by Love to Ride actively encourages and support more people to ride bikes, and staff and councillors were empowered to ride more during the month.
The fun challenge added a friendly competition for workplaces, and team members logged their rides to compare with other organisations.
Stroud District Council finished a creditable 20th position in England for Government and public services with between 200 and 499 staff, and second in that size category in Gloucestershire too.
The SDC team clocked up 1,427 miles cycled and 387lbs of CO2 saved by swapping cars for handlebars.
Cycling and walking contributes several key priorities and objectives of SDC’s Council Plan. A total of £312,000 is committed to strategic and local projects in the current financial year, including feasibility work on the Cam-Dursley Greenway and Cainscross Road, and design of the Wotton-Kingswood-Charfield Greenway with Sustrans. With Gloucestershire County Council, the multi-user path between Stonehouse and Stroud will be upgraded too.
“We are determined to keep up the momentum to ensure that walking and cycling infrastructure is improved across our district, and Cycle September was a great opportunity to remind ourselves of the benefits of walking and cycling where possible,” said SDC Environment Committee Chair, Councillor Chloe Turner.
Committee Vice-Chair, Councillor Robin Layfield added: “There are so many benefits to be enjoyed from riding a bike, and Cycle September was about embracing each and every one of them. Cycling benefits the environment, frees up space for public transport, deliveries, emergency services and for those who have no other option than to drive.”
Benefits of cycling include:
- Supercharged physical health – even a 10-minute bike ride will boost your immune system, improve cardiovascular health, and help you live longer
- Improved mental health – riding a bike is a mindful activity that promotes the release of endorphins and can reduce the causes of depression
- Reduced stress and anxiety – biking can calm the mind, improve self-confidence, and elevate your mood
- Protecting the planet – reduce your carbon footprint by leaving the car at home
- Saving money – cut down on transport costs and car maintenance
