Submitted by Grainne Kennedy on Fri, 2017-09-29 15:51
Not even Storm Aileen could dampen the spirits of the University’s intrepid cyclists on 13 September - Cycle to Work Day.
A photo competition on the day gave us an insight into the beautiful and sometimes interesting views that staff see as they cycle to work. The winner of the photo competition was Paul Brown of the Department of Pure Maths and Mathematical Statistics with a picture of some curious cows (below) that wanted to say hello.
A number of buildings and departments got involved in the fun, taking the opportunity to commend those who already cycle and to encourage those who do not to try cycling for the day. The Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience held a lunchtime cycle for novice cyclists. The Centre for Mathematical Sciences, the University Library and the Judge Business School, all hosted Bike Breakfasts and gave out cycling safety accessories to staff. Greenwich House held a highly competitive slow bicycle race, while the Maxwell Centre and Cancer Research UK provided information on the support the University provides to staff who would like to cycle to work.
The day was a great success and we would like to thank everyone involved.
If you already cycle or you would like to commute by bicycle, there are a number of facilities and a range of support that the University provides to make cycling easier:
Financial schemes
The University is a member of the Cycle to Work Scheme which allows staff to purchase bicycles and associated safety equipment on a tax-free basis through a salary sacrifice scheme. There is also a Travel to Work loan scheme where staff can access a tax-free loan of up to £2,500 to buy a bicycle and associated safety equipment.
Cycle repair stations
A recent installation of eight bike repair stations has brought the total across the University estate to 11. All stations have a pump and a number of tools to help you maintain your bike or to carry out repairs. Locations of the stations can be found under the transport tab of the University map.
