Pupils at Torrance Primary School are really going places after super work to promote the use of cycles and scooters.
Torrance has been given Cycle Friendly Primary School status by Cycling Scotland – in recognition of great strides on active travel.
A new covered shelter has been created at the school to hold 20 bikes, as well as providing parking for up to 20 scooters.
It was developed by the Eco Schools Committee, Junior Road Safety Officers and Pupil Council, working with experts from The City of Play.
The finished design includes a ‘Bug Hotel’ within rocks, wood and wildflowers.
It’s a far cry from the previous cycle parking, which was uncovered and in need of brightening up.
Great work at the school – supported by Sustrans, Transport Scotland and East Dunbartonshire Council – also includes:
- Cycling Scotland's Bikeability training sessions
- The Junior Road Safety Officers programme – which encourages pupils to highlight and promote road safety issues.
Councillor Susan Murray, Vice Convener of the Council’s Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets Committee, said, “I am delighted that Torrance Primary has secured Cycle Friendly Primary School status. Well done to all involved.
“The good work includes a new active travel shelter. Not only will it allow parents and pupils to feel more relaxed about bringing a bike or scooter to school, it also promotes active travel – which helps to reduce traffic congestion at school gates and also promotes fitness and wellbeing.
“Providing secure parking is a crucial factor in encouraging young people to cycle or scooter to school.”
The new shelter was funded by Sustrans and Transport Scotland.
Sustrans Scotland Smarter Choices Coordinator Education and Young People, Cecilia Oram, said, “Congratulations to Torrance Primary for fabulous work on cycling and scootering – driving forward on active travel.
“Encouraging children to walk, cycle and scooter will reduce congestion and pollution around the school gates. It will also help your child’s mental and physical health.
“Schools throughout East Dunbartonshire are encouraging youngsters and employees to use active travel – as part of the curriculum and for journeys to and from school.”
Matt Wilberton, Development Officer at Cycling Scotland, said, “I’m pleased to see Torrance Primary being recognised for their efforts in promoting active travel among pupils and staff at the school. The support of senior management has meant more pupils and staff are choosing cycling as a sociable and sustainable option for travelling to and from school.”
Meanwhile, a Family Fun Day is taking place on 8 August – the day of the Glasgow 2018 Cycling Time Trial – at Woodmill Park, Torrance, with a range of attractions, including:
- Geo-caching
- Toddlers’ Toddle
- Walk the dog
- Walking football
- Water Zorbs
- Giant inflatables
- Bike stunt team
- Dr Bike
- Professor Balance™
- Face painter
Please be aware that due to road closures you will only be able to walk or cycle to this event. Check out the new East Dunbartonshire Cycle Map for ways to get to this exciting event – www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/healthyhabits
Follow us on Twitter @EDCouncil or like us on Facebook for the latest updates