Works start on Carbon CLEVER Cycle storage in Inverness

1st August 2014

Works to install twelve storage lockers for electric bikes have started this week in Inverness - six at Falcon Square and a further six at Glenurquhart Road.

The public are advised that contractors McGregor Construction and SSE will be on site at both locations.

The works are for The Highland Council's Carbon CLEVER Cycle Scheme (a pilot electric bicycle hire scheme in Inverness) which will see 12 electric bikes available for hire to the public.

The project is part of Highland Council's vision and commitment to make Inverness a Carbon CLEVER City and carbon neutral by the year 2025. The Carbon CLEVER Cycles pilot scheme will be formally launched later this month.

The lockers installed will be temporary structures. Roads Authority Consent has been received, and tactile hazard warning strips are being installed to direct people who are blind or partially-sighted around the lockers.

The scheme will be operated by Co-Wheels Car Club and users will be required to register via their website to hire an e-bike. The website will go live in August.

Funding for the project was provided by SSE (£40,000), with contributions from The Highland Council (£10,000) and Inverness Common Good Fund (£5,000).

Leader of The Highland Council, Councillor Drew Hendry said: "The Council is committed to both reducing its own carbon emissions and working with partners, stakeholders, and the people of Highlands to reduce the carbon footprint of the region through the Carbon Clever Highlands initiative.

"We are also committed to the Carbon CLEVER City vision - of which the Carbon CLEVER Cycles project is an excellent example of how we can achieve this. This is an exciting pilot which has the potential to grow and develop."