S4 - Gatehouse Development Initiative - Wheels of Fleet
Investment project code: 269
Job Title- Project Co-ordinator and Bike Mechanic
Amount Requested: £8,640.00
Wheels of Fleet is a recycling, repair bicycle project, based in the grounds of the Mill on the Fleet in Gatehouse.
We have two paid self-employed workers, with 14 regular volunteers, and a waiting list of 3 wanting to come along, learn and help out.
Our aims are to make cycling more affordable to many, to offer bike confidence lessons, basic bike repair workshops to help make individuals’ bikes more sustainable and economical to run.To increase awareness of local journeys to work or interviews, using our local printed maps. Promoting cycling as a health activity to improve personal fitness and raise mental health awareness of these benefits. To increase a cycle community to help people meet others through this healthy activity.
We have created a very friendly, approachable project, which has given many the confidence to take up cycling again or indeed for the first time. We promote widely, costs are based on ability to pay or free, depending on individual circumstances, while also encouraging many to learn new skills in a safe and positive environment. Appointments can be made so privacy can be allowed for anyone who requires this.
To sustain a positive and close relationship with the local community, producing updates on events, workshops and availability of bikes. To coordinate between customers and the bike mechanic, using useful local knowledge and judgement of character to help run a smooth operation.
Our two new posts will complete all of the following: To promote a sustainable project with its main ethos of promoting cycling and staying true to always being affordable to many, coordinate volunteers, fulfilling their needs for learning and at the correct pace and energy that fits with each individual. To create a positive atmosphere for all involved ,with regular meetings, in a group, and with individuals, assuring all have a voice and are being heard.
To produce publicity on a regular basis, encouraging a network with other bicycle projects throughout the region.