With the sun beating down, residents of all ages and abilities enjoyed a free cycling extravaganza at the launch of the new cycling hub in Hanworth on Saturday (14 May).  Located at Hanworth Air Park, Leisure Centre and Library, the new facility is the latest addition to cycling facilities in the borough. 

In partnership with Sustrans, the cycle hub was set up through Transport for London’s (TfL) Healthy Streets Programme.  Dozens of riders took part in a series of learn to ride sessions with groups for children, families, and adults. Hounslow Cycling Campaign led an amazing ride around the local area including a visit to Crane Park to see the shot tower. 

Staff from Bikeworks hosted a Dr Bike to assist with free minor cycle repairs and to give tips and advice on cycle maintenance.  A Sustrans disco bike, with pedal power operating a disco ball and some music added a touch of sparkle to the day.

Anita Pinnalawatta, from Feltham, was there with her son Adam, aged 8, and said:

“I’m a big fan of the learn to ride sessions and thanks to the help being provided by Hounslow Council, Adam has learnt to confidently ride a bike.  We now love riding together as a family, it really has changed our lives for the better.”

Victoria Lawson, Hounslow Council’s Executive Director of Environment, Culture, and Customer Services, said:

“This new centre is a great addition to cycling facilities in the borough and judging by the large number of people who came along to the launch, it’s going to be very popular.  We are committed to increasing cycling facilities and improving safety and accessibility so that as many people as possible can benefit from the mental and physical health benefits of cycling, and the environmental gains of reducing individual car use and improving air quality.”

James Cleeton, Director or Sustrans in London, said:

“It’s been great working with Hounslow, helping to set up their Hanworth Community Cycle Hub through TfL’s Healthy Streets programme. Our experience in helping boroughs set up community cycle hubs tells us they work - changing the way people choose to get around and helping many people swap their car for a cycle to travel shorter distances.

“Cycle hubs like this are about giving people the time, space, equipment and training to build their confidence, enabling them to make the long-term change to how they travel, benefiting them as individuals, their neighbourhood and the environment.”