Here at Cyclehoop, we have enjoyed a mutually beneficial partnership with Waltham Forest council for over two years. To date, we have 113 Bikehangars across the borough and an extremely busy autumn of installations ahead of us in response to the staggering demand for cycle parking in the area.
Our inclusive ethos of engaging with the local community, coupled with our passion to make the lives of fellow cyclists easier, closely aligns with Waltham Forest’s ‘Mini-Holland’ initiative. This was commissioned to tackle fundamental issues such as road safety, air quality and public health in the borough. When they approached us with an idea for a Healthy Streets Awards competition, designed to promote cycling and care for the environment, we knew it was an opportunity not to be missed.
The competition was aimed at local schools across three age groups and pupils were tasked with creating an eye-catching design for the borough’s new Bikehangars. The result was two special-edition units that induce a sense of community and pride amongs the pupils and teachers of the winning schools.
A small team from Cyclehoop travelled north to Waltham Forest to visit two of the schools – Mission Grove Primary School and St Mary’s C of E School – and the big winners, along with their classmates.
Kate Jennings, Head Teacher at Mission Grove Primary School says;
‘It is fantastic that Klea has done so brilliantly in the competition and we can’t wait until her fantastic design brightens up our Bikehangar. Hopefully it will encourage other pupils and teachers to travel to school by bicycle. As a school, we are proud to have achieved gold in the TfL Stars Travel Plan because we are keen to encourage safer and healthier travel and more cycling, scooting and walking.’
Klea, winning student at Mission Grove Primary School says;
‘I wanted a simple design, not too busy, but colourful. I thought the shape of bikes wheels would look good.’
Lucy Powell, student at St Marys C of E aged 11 says;
‘I am happy that there are new bike racks because more people can cycle to school as it is good for the environment’.
Ben Steward student at St Marys C of E aged 11 says;
‘I feel like the new stands will encourage more children to cycle to school instead of using their cars. It will help towards keeping children safer’.
The successful contestants received individual prizes all aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle, in addition to their own stunning customised Bikehangars that are available for everyone to enjoy. It appears that community spirit has never been stronger in this little corner of London!
Find out more about our Bikehangar Scheme.
