Sheffield Cycling 4 All, an inclusive cycling project run by Disability Sheffield, has launched a crowdfunding campaign to help pay for the relocation of their cycle storage containers in Hillsborough Park.
The park is undergoing various improvement projects, including a new All Wheeled Bike Track and the development of the Old Coach House into a community dementia café, with the latter meaning it is no longer practical for Cycling 4 All’s storage unit to remain in its current location. However a relocation to elsewhere in the park will allow expansion of the project, meaning they can increase the number of other cycling groups that they can work with and support.
Sheffield Cycling 4 All has been in existence for over a decade and has more than 1,000 members. With over 30 different trikes and bikes, and ways of adapting them, the project enables everyone to experience the joys of cycling, regardless of their disability or long-term health condition. It is the only disabled cycling project of its kind in the county and the appeal hopes to raise £5,000 for new facilities.
Dame Sarah Storey, Active Travel Commissioner for the Sheffield City Region, and multiple gold medal winning Paralympian, said: “The work of Sheffield Cycling 4 All is a beacon of opportunity for the people who attend, providing access to a range of bikes that suit all types of impairment and mobility need. The project ensures that regardless of disability, people can access the enjoyment and opportunity cycling provides in a safe and welcoming environment, and I have had the pleasure of attending and witnessing the impact first-hand. The storage unit will ensure they can securely store the equipment in an accessible way to maximise riding time for those who attend.”
Cyclist David Storf added: “It’s all about exercise and a way to get out and meet other people. I love this project and have made a lot of friends through cycling. At the beginning I was shy and didn’t say much, I’ll talk to anybody now. I even got to cycle with Dame Sarah Storey when she visited the project! People would be devastated if Sheffield Cycling 4 All couldn’t carry on.”
And Hillsborough Councillor Bob Johnson, Cabinet Member for Transport and Development, commented: “Sheffield Cycling 4 All provides a vital service to many local people, breaking down the barriers so that anyone who wants to take up cycling can regardless of ability. We are very proud and lucky to have them based here in Hillsborough Park, but for them to continue and expand it is essential that they can raise the required funding. With our All Wheeled bike park set to open in Spring, I want to see Sheffield Cycling 4 All members enjoying the many benefits this new development will bring and wish them every success in reaching their target.”
The crowd funder is live now so if you wish to donate please do so here.
