Selby Big Bike Revival: Discover the Joy of Active Travel

Have you ever wondered how a simple bike ride could transform your life and your community? At Our Zero Selby, a community-led initiative, we believe in the power of active travel – and we're thrilled to share how our projects, inspired by your feedback, are making a real impact. 

Community-Led and Resident-Driven 

Two years ago, we reached out to understand your needs and aspirations for a more sustainable Selby. Through extensive consultations, workshops, and our pilot phase, we engaged directly with 525 local residents and 48 stakeholders. You told us you wanted safer, more accessible cycling routes, better walking paths, and improved public transport. We listened and turned your feedback into action. This initiative isn't just about making changes; it's about making the changes you wanted to see in Selby. 

What is Active Travel? 

Active travel is all about using your own energy to get around. Whether you’re walking, cycling, scooting, or wheeling, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate exercise into your daily routine while also protecting the environment. 

Why is Active Travel Important? 

• Be a Zero Hero: By swapping car journeys for bike rides or walks, you reduce your carbon footprint, helping to cut emissions and tackle climate change. 

• Health Boost: Regular physical activity can improve both your physical and mental health, reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and depression. 

• Fun and Social: Exploring your local area on two wheels can be a great way to meet new people and connect with your community. 

Selby Big Bike Revival: Getting You Back in the Saddle 

At Our Zero Selby, we’re passionate about making Selby a greener and healthier place to live. That’s why we partnered with Up for Yorkshire and Cogs Cycles to deliver for the Cycling UK programme Big Bike Revival.  

Two years ago, you told us you wanted more opportunities for cycling. We listened, and here’s what we did: This years programme started with three free bike fix events, successfully giving 21 bikes a safety check and repairs – even donating two bikes to deserving individuals and handing out 12 sets of rechargeable bike lights. 

Our Zero Selby’s Matt Fisher who organised the Selby Big Bike Revival events said, “It’s the third year we’ve run Selby Big Bike Revival and we get more and more people involved and great reviews every time. It’s all about helping adults to begin or return to cycling; it’s healthy, social, practical, sustainable and can save you money. 

In August, we followed up with four guided bike rides to encourage everyone – from seasoned cyclists to beginners – to get out on two wheels. Our experienced ride leaders guided groups along safe, traffic-free routes, showcasing the beautiful countryside around Selby. The rides were a tremendous success, with 25 participants joining us.  

One participant shared, "Last Saturday I went for a bike ride as part of the Selby Big Bike Revival. As an 'oldie' who's returned to cycling this was just the ticket; great company, good route and ridden at a nice pace too. Not too far, not too fast, just right; a very nice afternoon out. I'll certainly be joining another ride in this series. Jo" 

A Lasting Legacy 

We’re excited to announce that Selby University of the Third Age (U3A) group will be establishing a free bi-monthly cycle ride. They will meet at Selby Bowls Club and go for a social hour-long ride, keeping to back roads to avoid traffic and encourage plenty of chat.  

We are also in contact with Love to Ride, a UK-wide movement to get more people riding bikes, so we are part of their plans in North Yorkshire. To begin they are planning an event in Autumn in Selby, and we will share details as soon as we can. 

These actions ensure that the positive impact of Our Zero Selby's initiatives continues long into the future. 

Your Voice, Our Actions 

Our projects are based on your feedback from two years ago, focusing on active travel and community connectivity. Here’s what we've been working on: 

Improve the Cycle Route Network: Creating a joined-up network of user-friendly cycle paths. 

Getting Cycle Boxes at Traffic Lights: Enhancing safety and convenience for cyclists at intersections. 

Pedestrianisation of Areas in Selby: Reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality. 

Watch This Space 

We may put on more bike rides in the future – hopefully in the next month or so. Stay tuned for updates on our website and join us on our journey to make Selby a greener, healthier place. Find out more about our other projects. 

Together, we can create a healthier, happier, and more sustainable Selby for everyone.