Biosphere Bikes has been able to add to its seasonal seafront hire hub by opening a shop and community hub in Henrietta Street in Girvan, thanks to part funding from South Ayrshire Council.
The Council gave the not-for-profit social enterprise charity £70,000 through its Place Based Investment Programme. This, along with funding from Foundation Scotland (Kilgallioch Windfarm Community Benefit Fund) has allowed Biosphere Bikes to purchase premises at 121A Henrietta Street in the town and begin the redevelopment process of the property.
The new shop and community hub means the charity can not only continue to hire bikes, but they can sell refurbished bicycles, and equipment and even run workshops. Biosphere Bikes was first granted Certified Business status from the Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere in 2020, underlining their commitment to sustainability.
Val Scholfield, Project Officer, Biosphere Bikes Shop & Community Hub said:
"Owning our charity premises is not just about having a physical space; it's about owning our future and solidifying our commitment to serving our community. “This achievement is a testament to the unwavering support of those who believe in our project including South Ayrshire Council’s Community Wealth Building Team, Kilgallioch Windfarm through Foundation Scotland, ARPL Architects, and Lockharts Law.
“With this ownership, we can foster greater sustainability by using bikes as a tool to create lasting change for the people of Girvan allowing them to pedal, connect and thrive." Councillor Bob Pollock, Economic Development Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said: “The charity is already well established but having a permanent base which can be open all year round, will make a big difference. Biosphere Bikes always go that extra mile to ensure everyone has access to bikes no matter their age, ability, or background; they are an inspiration.”
Councillor Alec Clark, Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Culture and Rural Affairs who represents South Ayrshire Council on the UNESCO Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Board said:
“I am so pleased we could help Biosphere Bikes; they have become a real community lynchpin in and around Girvan. The new hub will help them promote health and wellbeing and tackle issues such as social isolation and exclusion. I wish Biosphere Bikes every success for the future.” The Biosphere Bikes Shop & Community Hub is open Monday-Wednesday from 9am-3pm and Friday and Saturday from 9am-3pm.