Northumberland Bike Friendly Business Scheme relaunched

Hexham: The Bike Friendly Business Scheme is back! David Dixon, Tynedale’s Bicycle Mayor, started this initiative to help businesses cater to cyclists.

Last year, pubs and cafes joined in. They promised to welcome cycling groups, provide secure bike parking, and have first aid kits ready.

The Coach & Horses Hotel in Hexham became a Bike Friendly Business in 2024. They offer free water bottle refills, info on cycle hire, and charging for e-bikes and phones.

Businesses with the bike-friendly logo can attract more bike tourists. They also need to share details about cycle trails and provide basic tools if possible.

Mr. Dixon is looking for funding to help more businesses join or improve their services. This could include puncture kits and secure bike parking.

Custom charging pods from Intelligen of Haltwhistle might also be part of the plan. The goal is to attract tourists from Holland and Germany.

Hexham is a great spot for this. It’s near Hadrian’s Wall, Kielder Forest, and the National Park, making it perfect for cycle tourism.

Businesses interested in joining can reach out to Mr. Dixon at bicyclemayor@drdaviddixon.earth. He’s also asking for help with a bike survey.

The survey will identify cycling barriers in Tynedale. The aim is to reduce car trips and improve health and leisure options.

You can fill out the survey online at www.drdaviddixon.earth/tynedale-bicycle-mayor or request a printed copy from Mr. Dixon.

Mr. Dixon is promoting the Hexham Community Cargo Bike, available soon at Wentworth Leisure Centre. After training, locals can borrow it for a small fee.

Businesses can also test the bike for deliveries, which could help cut down on van trips.