Five new electric bike hire stations open across Falkirk

They were launched on Monday, doubling the number of electric bike hire points across the area thanks to funding from SP Energy Networks’ Green Economy Fund, Energy Saving Trust and Falkirk Council.

The new locations are: Falkirk Community Hospital; Zetland Park, Grangemouth; Callander Par; Duke Street, Denny, and Union Street, Bo'ness

They join established sites at The Helix (Kelpies), Falkirk Wheel, Falkirk High Street, Forth Valley Royal Hospital and Stenhousemuir town centre.

A further six stations are also available in Stirling and Clackmannanshire, giving Falkirk residents easy commuting or leisure access to the rest of Forth Valley by e-bike.

The Falkirk area is already leading the way in e-bike use in Forth Valley; accounting for 10,244 of the 14,299 Forth Bike journeys made last year.

Shirley Paterson from environmental charity Forth Environment Link, which manages the scheme, said: “We have already seen unprecedented use of Forth Bike within Falkirk during 2020, with people finding the e-bikes a great way to explore their local neighbourhoods, keep their spirits up and stay fit.

https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/news/people/boost-for-falkirk-area-village-as-firm-takes-over-community-hall-3152013

“By doubling the number of charging stations people will hopefully find it even easier to use the bikes for commuting and as restrictions ease, to stay connected with family and friends.”

Forth Bike users in Falkirk clocked up an impressive 50,000 miles in 2020.

Councillor Paul Garner, council spokesman for the environment said: “Providing an additional five new electric bike stations, is such a great addition to the area.

“It will connect communities, increase access to our tourism attractions and town centres, create active travel opportunities that improve people’s health and wellbeing and let people visit areas they might not have thought of cycling to.

“I’m sure it will be well received, especially within my own ward with one being situated in Denny town centre.”

NHS Forth Valley also praised Forth Bike’s positive impact on the region’s health.

A total of 87 local key workers have taken advantage of free membership, with 13 more places still available.

Forth Bike also has a half price launch offer for new members. An annual subscription will cost just £32, instead of £65 until March 5.

Contact: [email protected] or visit www.forthbike.co.uk