BOOST FOR CYCLISTS
More than 30 local firms in Dumfries and Galloway are set to receive a significant cash injection to revitalise their businesses. The Cycling Fund is providing a total of £300,000 to boost the region and establish it as a prominent cycling destination.
The South of Scotland Cycling Infrastructure Fund is supporting 30 tourism businesses, social enterprises, and community groups by offering capital grants ranging from £3,000 to £25,000. These funds will enable organisations that cater to visitors to enhance their cycling facilities.
One of the businesses benefitting from the Cycling Fund is Ernespie Farm in Castle Douglas, operated by the McMiken family. The farm caters to visitors of all ages with a variety of amenities such as a farmhouse kitchen, garden centre, gift shop, and soft play facilities. With support from the Cycling Infrastructure Fund, Ernespie Farm has established a repair station equipped with washing facilities and lockers to accommodate the increasing number of cyclists visiting the farm.
David McMiken from Ernespie Farm expressed optimism about the growing cycling market in Dumfries and Galloway, leading to the farm’s decision to enhance its facilities through the Cycling Infrastructure Fund. The fund aims to improve facilities not only for cyclists exploring the Kirkpatrick C2C and 7Stanes trail centres but also for visitors participating in the South of Scotland’s Coast to Coast cycling route.
The investment includes provisions such as bike storage, racks, power charging sockets, locks, washes, drying equipment, and repair stations. The South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) has introduced this fund, supported by the South of Scotland Cycling Partnership, a coalition of local and national organisations with a vision to establish the region as a premier cycling destination.
Chair of SOSE, Russel Griggs OBE, highlighted the partnership’s goal of positioning the South of Scotland as a global cycling hub. Business Minister Richard Lochhead commended the initiative for enhancing local infrastructure to boost the economy and support businesses. VisitScotland’s destination development director, Gordon Smith, emphasized the importance of cycling in the region’s tourism strategy and its positive impact on the community.
The Cycling Fund’s efforts align with a broader strategy to leverage the South of Scotland’s hosting of the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships and UCI Bike Region Label title for economic, social, and environmental benefits. By collaborating with various stakeholders, including businesses and community groups, the fund is paving the way for sustainable tourism growth in the region.
The South of Scotland’s 7Stanes trail centres offer premier mountain biking experiences, contributing to the region’s appeal as a cycling destination. Through such investments and partnerships, Dumfries and Galloway are on course to becoming a prominent hub for cycling enthusiasts, attracting visitors from near and far.