A new social enterprise is aiming to encourage Enfield families to discover the benefits of two-wheeled travel.
The Family Bike Club has opened next to Enfield Chase Station and is now offering a whole host of bikes and cycle add-ons for hire to help families get around the borough without a car.
Residents can sign up as members of the community interest company to enjoy a range of benefits, from tandem bike hire to child seats and trailers.
The business was founded by Luke Balnave last year, following a successful £10,000 crowdfunding campaign. He told the Dispatch: “Along with the cash, it was public vote of confidence in what we were doing, which gave us a boost.
“My main inspiration is cycling with my kids and the amount of enjoyment I saw them getting from it.”
Luke discovered the ideal location for The Family Bike Club next to Enfield Chase Station, utilising a long-vacant business premises. “I saw the space was empty for a quite a few years,” said Luke. “It doesn’t have running water, so you can’t put a coffee shop in it – but it works for us.”
Volunteers are being sought to help with different aspects of the business but Luke has already hired a Ukrainian refugee as an apprentice. He is now looking to develop partnerships with local schools.
“I want to trial hosting a hub where we could get a working model for any parents looking to change how they travel to school.
“We want to have an impact on people who are still driving to the gates. I have had positive discussions with schools that have active travel ambassadors.”
The Family Bike Club’s range of bikes is impressive and will cater for just about any family’s needs. There is even a rare four-person tandem available.
David Hilliard, a local cycling instructor and Enfield Community Hero, has been appointed as a director of The Family Bike Club. Explaining why he is supporting the social enterprise, he told the Dispatch: “It is a really important piece in the cycling jigsaw and getting people on bikes.
“Cycling can address so many issues relating to physical inactivity and kids being glued to their screens and it can be a real family activity.
“It is something that can generate a curiosity and an interest in cycling and it is a boost for cycling in the community. The support that has been received during the fundraiser is a powerful sign that there is a definite interest in it.”
Source: Einfield Dispatch
