'BIKE FRIENDLY' businesses across the region have seen a 25% increase in cycling, thanks to a pioneering scheme being run as part of West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s £60m CityConnect programme aimed at encouraging more people to travel by bike or on foot.

Through CityConnect’s Bike Friendly Business scheme, which has been running since August 2016, employers can access expert advice and grants of up to £5,000 to encourage more staff to commute by bike with bronze, silver and gold accreditation for organisations going the extra mile.

More than 180 organisations across the region have taken part so far, with more than 50 receiving accreditation. Grant funding has been used to install high quality bike parking, as well as provide pool bikes and cycle training.

Cllr Kim Groves, Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Transport Committee, said: “The Bike Friendly Business scheme is a great opportunity for business to access expert advice from a team committed to seeing more people travelling by bike, and it’s clear the scheme is having an impact with participating organisations seeing an average increase of 25% in the number of people travelling by bike.

“Through the CityConnect team, we’re working in partnership to deliver award-winning cycling infrastructure, which importantly, is supported by a range of engagement initiatives, including support for businesses."