Photo: SCOPIX –
Tired of traffic jams and packed trains? Ashford Borough Council has a new solution: a campaign designed to get more people out of their cars and onto their bikes. Cycle Ashford is a new initiative aiming to make cycling the go-to choice for travel and leisure in the borough. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, the campaign is designed to help everyone feel confident about hopping on a bike and exploring the area’s many cycling paths.
The heart of the campaign is a brand-new website, www.cycleashford.org.uk. The site is your one-stop shop for everything cycling in Ashford, with a special focus on its custom route planner. This handy tool lets you find the best way to get from A to B by bike, with options to avoid busy roads and steep hills. The planner also shows you where all the local bike parking is, and you can even download your route to follow it live on your journey.
Councillor Steve Campkin, Deputy Leader of Ashford Borough Council, believes the campaign will do more than just get people moving. “Ashford offers safe, scenic, and accessible cycling routes for all ages and abilities,” he said. “Our hope is that this campaign will encourage more people to consider using their bikes to get to and from work, support their own physical and mental well-being, and take some cars off the road.”
The website also features inspiring stories from local residents who cycle regularly for work or fun. They share their favourite routes and experiences, giving you a first hand look at what’s possible on two wheels.
Adding to the campaign’s momentum is the support of Henry Urand, a local resident, para triathlon World Champion, and Paralympian. “Some of my favourite routes are in and around the Ashford area,” Urand shared. “I hope the Cycle Ashford campaign will encourage more people to get on their bikes and explore the fantastic local cycling routes we are blessed with, while also improving their fitness.”
Throughout the campaign, Cycle Ashford will be sharing information on routes, promoting cycling events, and offering tips from local cycling enthusiasts. You can also follow the campaign on Facebook, X, and Instagram. So, with the warmer weather here, there’s never been a better time to get back in the saddle and give cycling a try.