CYCLISTS can now get a free £50 voucher to help fix their bikes during lockdown.
The scheme, which was initially announced by transport secretary Grant Shapps earlier this year, is now open for bike owners to sign up to.
It will run until the number of allocated vouchers run out.
It’s part of a £2billion package to get people to walk and cycle more.
Number 10 has said the Government is “working closely” with the cycling industry to monitor its success.
The scheme will then be adapted before it is rolled it out more widely.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “From helping people get fit and healthy and lowering their risk of illness, to improving air quality and cutting congestion, cycling and walking have a huge role to play in tackling some of the biggest health and environmental challenges that we face.
“But to build a healthier, more active nation, we need the right infrastructure, training and support in place to give people the confidence to travel on two wheels.
“That’s why now is the time to shift gears and press ahead with our biggest and boldest plans yet to boost active travel – so that everyone can feel the transformative benefits of cycling.”
Only selected retailers are taking part though, so make sure you check your local shop is accepting them before heading out.
Here’s what you need to know.
Where and how do I get my voucher?
From just before midnight tonight (July 27), bike owners in England can visit the Energy Saving Trust’s website and register to get a free £50 voucher.
As Number 10 anticipates the scheme will be popular, only 50,000 are being released this evening and the rest will be put online in stages.
It’s also being managed in this way to help manage capacity across participating stores.
The Energy Saving Trust will then email you a code, which you can either show on your phone or print out and give to the retailer.
There are only 500,000 vouchers up for grabs so make sure you apply soon.
The voucher can only be used for repairs, so you can’t buy any bike accessories with it.
Everyone in England who is aged 18+ will be able to apply for the scheme.
Can I find out if my local bike shop is taking part?
There’s a separate page on the Energy Saving Trust’s website which helps you track down where your nearest participating shop is.
Businesses have to apply to be part of the scheme, so not everyone is on it automatically.
But the Department of Transport has said that the list will continue to be updated as vouchers are available, so keep checking back to see when your nearest repair shop is included.
