THOUSANDS of pounds has been given to several companies across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole to install showers and bike racks for cyclists. 

Companies have been given grants from a £55,000 pot to install new facilities for cyclists at workplaces, which includes shelters, lockers and security lighting. 

Five companies successfully applied for grants between £500 and £20,000 through the government’s Transforming Cities Fund. 

Hamworthy-based Adam Practice, one of the largest GP surgeries on the south coast, now boasts a brand-new cycle shelter with CCTV equipment, as well as locks for added security.

Bournemouth Echo: Cyclist in Wallisdown Road (BNPS)Cyclist in Wallisdown Road (BNPS)

Technology and mobility specialists April Six, in Christchurch, also has a new shelter and a place where employees can put their wet clothes when it rains on the journey to work. 

Staff working at Beryl in Boscombe now have lockers, a drying room and a shower. 

Meanwhile, Bournemouth University has installed new cycle racks which also cater for cargo and adapted bikes, equipped with electric charging points, too. 

Meanwhile, the Pause Cat Café in Bournemouth will provide its workforce and volunteers with shelters, lockers and drying facilities.

Bournemouth Echo: A cyclist in Whitelegg WayA cyclist in Whitelegg Way (Image: Daily Echo)

It is hoped the funding will encourage more cyclists to take to the road. 

Jaya Da Costa, founder of Pause Cat Café, said: “Our recent survey has already shown a 25 per cent rise in cycling and walking since our facilities have been installed. 

“We are so grateful for BCP Council’s help in making a tangible difference for our team, giving us the resources we need to protect our planet.” 

Cllr Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for the environment, said: “It’s great to see local businesses investing in workplace facilities that will encourage and enable their staff to walk, run, cycle and scoot to work.  

“The benefits of active travel commutes are wide, from helping the workforce stay fit, healthy and productive to fewer cars on the road and less air pollution.  

“I hope this will prompt more businesses to talk with their staff about the measures they could take, such as installing secure parking and lockers, and encourage them to switch to active, eco-friendly travel commutes.”