Boosting cycling access on Arran

By Martin Hofschroer
Four people stand outside a building with e-bikes, smiling. A banner for "Dales Cycles" is visible in the background. Two individuals in the center shake hands, marking the delivery of new e-bikes.
Thanks to funding from our Cycle Access Fund (CAF) behaviour change programme, Arran Eco Savvy has successfully expanded its e-bike fleet to better serve the island community

The additional e-bikes, sourced from Dales Cycles in Glasgow, were selected to cater to cyclists of all ages and sizes.  

This expansion ensures that more residents and visitors can benefit from Eco Savvy's loan schemes, enhancing local transport options and encouraging healthier, greener travel.

Emma Tracey, Eco Savvy's active travel staff member, shared: 

We now have e-bikes to suit smaller and taller people, making the fleet more inclusive and better able to serve our island community.

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Juliette Walsh, also from Eco Savvy, added: 

"We feel incredibly lucky to have received this timely funding from Cycling UK. It will help keep the e-bike fleet resilient, and the service from Dales Cycles has been second to none." 

Emily Ryder, CAF programme manager, said: 

We're thrilled to see the positive impact our funding is making on Arran. Projects like Eco Savvy's e-bike scheme show how cycling can empower communities to live happier, healthier and greener lives.

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Four people wearing helmets and "Arran Eco Savvy" t-shirts stand outdoors with e-bikes, smiling. They are surrounded by greenery with houses in the background, promoting active travel and cycling.
The Active Travel team with their e-bikes

Cycle Access Fund has supported a range of initiatives that aim to break down barriers to cycling on Arran, including:

  • E-bike loan scheme: Expands access to e-bikes, encouraging active travel for everyday journeys and leisure
  • E-bike library: Offers long-term, refurbished e-bike loans
  • Affordable bike scheme: Provides adults with access to bikes on a pay-what-you-can basis, breaking down financial barriers to cycling
  • Free maintenance and repair service: Available to all cyclists, whether they use Eco Savvy's bikes or their own, supporting safe and sustainable cycling practices
  • Cycle buddy scheme: Trained cycle leaders help new or nervous cyclists build confidence, providing guidance on local routes and road safety

By expanding access to cycling, Cycle Access Fund is helping individuals choose greener travel options, supporting healthier lifestyles, and strengthening community connections across the island. 

To learn more about how to apply for funding and support cycling initiatives in your community, visit the Cycle Access Fund webpage.

Scotland Cycle Access Fund

Further reading