Construction firm Vermont, which is currently building a 31-storey tower in Liverpool, is backing a new bike hub offering affordable bicycles for hire and purchase. Tony McDonough reports

A new bike hub has been set up in Liverpool city centre by not-for-profit HYPE Urban Bikes backed by construction firm Vermont.

Located in Sefton Street, the new facility will offer affordable bicycles for hire and purchase, as well as a host of free and low-cost cycling-based activities and skills workshops. It has been officially opened by Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram.

It aims to make cycling accessible to all and get people living in and visiting the region on their bikes to explore the area, improve their health and wellbeing, and promote green, active travel.

HYPE Urban Bikes provides free and low-cost activities including road and cycle safety sessions, group rides and balance bike sessions in, and a host of courses and workshops covering topics such as cycle mechanics, recycling sustainability and leadership.

As a not-for-profit organisation, all cash generated by the bike hub will be invested back into the community, funding events, initiatives and the establishment of future hubs in other boroughs in the city region.

Recognising the appetite for cycling and exploring the barriers to access, HYPE and Vermont wanted to bring a central hub to Liverpool, to enable more people to get on their bikes and enjoy the benefits.

Vermont is one of Liverpool’s best known construction firms. It is currently building a £50m 31-storey residential tower at Princes Dock in Liverpool Waters.

Matthew Houghton from HYPE Urban Bikes, said: “HYPE Urban Bikes will create a vibrant, healthy and connected community.

“It will give back to the region and the people in it through cleaner air, reduced social isolation, improved fitness and a reduction in waste, through recycling and refurbishment of bikes.

“Last year the Metro Mayor, Steve Rotheram, revealed his plans to improve cycling in the city region and announced a dedicated fund. He has talked about his own experience of swapping his car for a bike and knows first-hand the benefits it can bring.

“We really can’t wait to welcome the public into the hub. Every penny spent with us is an investment directly back into the city region, so everyone benefits.”

Vermont chief executive Mark Connor added: “We are delighted to support Matt and HYPE Urban Bikes and we will be looking to see how we can support and assist the roll out across the city.

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“In doing so, we will also see the initiative provide skills and employment opportunities for local young people, which is fantastic for us as a business based in L8.”

Simon O’Brien, Liverpool City Region Cycling & Walking Commissioner, said he was “blown away” when he visited HYPE’s Bike Hub in Wirral.

He added: “It’s great news that they are now opening a new hub in the heart of Liverpool. The location with its easy access to the riverfront and the city centre is a most welcome addition to the cycling community of the region.”