Bike hire back for summer
27 June 2013
by Visit Blackpool
The scheme re-opens on July 1 under the management of new operator, Cycles Recycled, who will run a pilot scheme from Monday until the end of the Illuminations in November.
Under the new deal, the bikes will be available from 8am until 8pm each day allowing visitors and residents to cycle the Promenade, parks and streets around Blackpool in the summer sunshine.
The operator will be responsible for marketing and promoting the new scheme and will soon launch a new website to allow customers to pay via smart phone or the web as well as by phone and in person.
There is also a special discounted rate for residents of Blackpool of £1 per hour with an initial deposit of £10 providing 15 hours of cycling.
Visitors will pay £7 per day, although there will be discounts for hiring more than one bike.
Cllr John Jones, Blackpool Council cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “I’m delighted to announce the hire-a-bike scheme is returning to Blackpool.
“Blackpool is a perfect town for cycling; it’s very flat and we have excellent cycle lanes to ride in.
“I would urge local residents and visitors to give the scheme a try and make it a success.”
Ian Gibbs, director of Cycles Recycled, added: “Cycles Recycled are delighted to have been given the opportunity to work in partnership with Blackpool Council on this exciting venture.
“We have been involved with cycling at ‘grassroots’ level for many years with aims to encourage more people to cycle more often.
“This cycle hire project is an opportunity for locals and visitors to enjoy the many facets of Blackpool and the surrounding areas while pursuing a healthy option that is not detrimental to the environment.”
To book a bike, call 01253 477110 visit www.blackpoolhireabike.com or e-mail info@blackpoolhireabike.com.
Staff will also be available at Promenade bike hire stations offering further advice.
Members of the previous scheme with unused credit should contact cycling@blackpool.gov.uk with their name, address and e-mail address.
Any outstanding credit will be honoured.