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National cycling charity launches accreditation for 'cycle-friendly' office buildings
Posted on 21 Nov 2024
National biking charity Cycling UK has launched a new scheme that recognises office buildings that encourage Cycle to Work and promote sustainable and active travel.
The Cycle Friendly Buildings (CFB) initiative builds on the success of the charity's previous Cycle Friendly Employer accreditation (CFE), with the new scheme aiming to highlight workplaces that actively support cycling and sustainable commuting.
The scheme, launched nationally this week, has already gained traction, with companies across the UK signing up. Several office buildings are also set to be reaccredited in Belfast, which had already seen 14,000 organisations benefiting from the previous CFE programme.
Katie Legg, commercial director at Cycling UK, said: "The launch of the Cycle Friendly Buildings accreditation is an exciting step forward in our mission to make cycling an easier, safer, and more accessible option for all commuters. By recognising and supporting businesses that champion cycling, we're not just promoting a healthier and more eco-friendly way to travel, but also empowering workplaces to reduce congestion, cut costs, and improve productivity.
“The incredible success we've seen in Northern Ireland is a testament to the growing demand for this kind of change, and we're excited to see this momentum spread across the UK.”
Cycling UK stated that it is aiming for the whole of the UK to build on the momentum created by working communities in Northern Ireland, who now have an active desire to see more sustainable infrastructure investment.
Eamon Butler MRICS, property and facilities management at CBRE Northern Ireland, part of the team behind Belfast’s Ewart Building which is set to receive the new accreditation, said: "The Ewart building is committed to promoting sustainable and active travel. Cycling UK’s accreditation not only highlights our dedication to encouraging cycling within the workplace but also demonstrates a commitment to reducing environmental impact and fostering a healthier workforce."
This launch coincides with growing interest in Cycle to Work schemes including Gogeta, which works the ACT. Founded by former bike retailer Barry Scott, Gogeta charges just 3% commission – significantly lower than traditional providers – to ensure that bike retailers can keep costs affordable for their customers.