Councillors to get on their bikes

TOWN council members could soon be seen cycling around Frome as part of the council’s plans to encourage them to connect more with their constituents by getting involved in their cycle to work scheme. 

Some members have shown an interest in using e-bikes, which could cost up to £3,000.

The mode of transport is already proving to be an effective way for people to travel around the outskirts of the town 

The proposal is part of the council’s continued commitment to tackling the climate emergency by encouraging people to walk and cycle around the area. 

Cllr Nick Dove said, “An essential part of a councillor’s responsibility is to actively engage with constituents in their own wards and across town. Using an e-bike would increase the mobility of councillors and their ability to move around the town, in an efficient and carbon neutral manner. 

“Councillors are not eligible for any of the Government schemes such as Ride to Work as they are not employees.  

“This proposal is that Frome Town Council facilitates for councillors something similar to the ‘Cycle to Work’ scheme available to PAYE staff. 

“I would also suggest that part of the scheme would be that the e-bikes should be bought from a local independent business.” 

Frome Town Council proposed to purchase e-bikes up to a maximum value of £3,000, to assist councillors in their travel in the community. They would rent it to the councillors over a two- or three-year period and after a certain rental period, councillors would either own the bike, or pay a nominal fee to own it.