How Mapes of Millport is keeping Cumbrae moving with repairs and recycled rides
On Scotland’s self-proclaimed cycling island, Mapes of Millport has been keeping locals and visitors pedalling since 1946. Now owned and run by Scott Ferris, Mapes is more than just a bike shop. It’s a community staple. Whether it’s hiring bikes to tourists or offering low-cost repairs for residents, the shop is rooted in the island’s way of life.
Although a commercial business, Scott and his team have always gone the extra mile to support their neighbours. “It’s a close-knit wee town,” says Scott, “and local businesses have to look out for each other.”
That spirit of community led Mapes to first partner with Cycling UK through the Scotland Cycle Repair Scheme in 2020. Over four years, they serviced more than 400 bikes during the pandemic.
Now, with support from the Cycle Access Fund, they’re continuing that impact – repairing bikes for people on low incomes and recycling donated bikes for those who would otherwise go without.
Bikes that change lives
Cumbrae’s main town, Millport, is just a mile long, but bikes are essential for getting around. Whether it’s older residents heading to appointments, carers doing their rounds, or families popping to the shops, cycling is often the fastest, greenest and most affordable way to travel.
Through the Recycled and Repaired funding strands of the Cycle Access Fund, Mapes is helping more people on the island stay mobile, active and independent. That includes older people, low-income residents and essential workers like Patrick Conner.
Patrick’s story
Patrick works in social care, supporting vulnerable people across the island to live independently. He doesn’t drive, so most days he’s either walking or cycling – often in wind, rain or even snow.
On the days I walk my rounds, I do about 20,000 steps. A 20-minute walk between clients becomes a five-minute cycle
Patrick’s workday can involve up to 15 appointments. While public transport is available, the schedules don’t always line up – and the costs can add up quickly. That’s where the bike makes all the difference.
His old mountain bike was on its last legs, and replacing the brakes would have been a stretch. When he brought it to Mapes, Scott offered a solution: a recycled hybrid bike, fully refurbished and funded through the Cycle Access Fund.
I thought there must be a catch. But there wasn’t. I got a lighter, faster bike – and it’s made such a difference
Now, he uses the bike every day for work and rides it on his days off too. “It saves me money, keeps me fit, and makes me happy. Nothing beats a sunny day cycling round the island.”
Lasting impact
Mapes estimate they’ve donated more than 300 bikes over the years to people in need – a legacy now strengthened through Cycle Access Fund support.
Whether it’s older residents looking to stay active, key workers like Patrick, or families struggling with the cost of living, the shop’s repairs and recycled bikes are helping to unlock the joy and freedom of cycling. Thanks to the Cycle Access Fund, Mapes of Millport is showing how local bike shops can drive greener travel and offer practical, affordable solutions for people navigating tough financial times.
