Students hoping to get on their bikes

Posted 30 September 2010

To encourage the students at Harper Adams University College to use pedal rather than petrol power, the University College is appealing to the public for donations of unwanted, working bikes.

The provision of more bicycles for student use is just part of the University College’s initiative to cut its CO2 emissions and reduce its impact on the local environment.

By getting students to cycle more and drive less, Harper Adams hopes to contribute to the community effort to reduce traffic congestion and parking demand in Newport.

Other green initiatives that will come into force at the start of the new term in October, include a daily shuttle-bus running between town and campus, run by a Newport-based company and a car-share scheme – both of which will save on parking in the surrounding areas.

As students are on a tight budget, the use of bikes will also offer a cost-effective alternative to driving or catching the bus.

Rebecca Freer, Acting Student Services Manager, said: “The initiative will be of particular benefit to our International students who are already clamouring to loan bicycles from our limited supply of hire bikes, a few extra bicycles would allow more of our students to get out and about to explore and enjoy the area. 

“All of our International students who will be using bikes will take part in a cycling proficiency course to ensure that they are familiar with British roads and cycle safety. 

“Once one student has finished with the bike, it will be passed on to another thereby ensuring that donated bike has a long and useful life!

“We are also keen to hear from any local individuals or businesses who are interested in sponsoring the Pedal Power scheme through the provision of helmets, lights, locks and pumps or even sponsoring the purchase of new bikes for students to hire.”

Anyone wishing to donate a working bike can contact Student Services on 01952 815396.