Active Travel Minister Meets with Bira and ACT to discuss Cycle to Work Scheme

The Minister for Roads and Local Transport has met with representatives from Bira and the Association of Cycle Traders (ACT) to further discuss the Cycle to Work Scheme.

Minister Guy Opperman, who focuses, among other things, on cycling and active travel, has attended a meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Cycling and Walking with representatives of the two trade associations, including Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, which is the parent body of the ACT, and Mark James from independent cycling retailer J E James.

Mr Opperman heard a question from one MP, who had been told by independent bike dealers in his constituency that the current cycle to work scheme was not working for retailers and needed reform.

Currently, more than 650 businesses across the UK have signed up for an ACT campaign, the majority of which are independent retailers, calling for systemic change to the way the cycle-to-work scheme is administered so that it stops penalising independent cycle retailers and builds a scheme viable for all moving forward.

ACT representatives have meetings scheduled with the Cycle to Work Alliance and Cyclescheme for further discussions in the coming weeks.

“We really do encourage ACT members to contact their local MP to express any concerns that they have about the way cycle to work scheme is operating,” said Jonathan Harrison, Director of the ACT.

He added: “The more MPs that are made aware the better. Moreover, if you haven’t already signed up to become part of the movement demanding change to the cycle-to-work scheme, we strongly ask you to do so by visiting this page.

“This is about the whole being greater than the sum of its parts and the cycling retail sector coming together, working together to demand and deliver systemic change. That’s one of the benefits of being part of a trade association like the ACT, lobbying for and delivering change that will provide a positive future for independent bike dealers around the country.”

To find out more about the work ACT does, visit this link: https://www.cycleassociation.uk/cycle-to-work/

Bira is at the forefront of championing the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain. With a dedicated focus on revitalising and preserving the high street, we relentlessly campaign on their behalf. Our advocacy takes our collective voice to the halls of Parliament and into discussions with key stakeholders, where we represent the interests of small and independent businesses.

Our campaigns cover a wide spectrum of issues crucial to the success of independent traders. From combatting the rising tide of retail crime to advocating for changes in legislation that promote fairness and flexibility, we aim to leave no stone unturned. Bira is a staunch advocate for fairer business rates and reducing the regulatory burden that can stifle small businesses' growth potential. Through our efforts, we strive to ensure that the heartbeat of our communities, the high street, continues to thrive and serve as a vibrant hub for local businesses.