This report seeks authority to improve service delivery and meet the new Bikeability standards for cycle training, cycle activities and led rides through a competitive tender exercise to appoint a delivery partner.

That:

a)    The council undertake a competitive procurement exercise to outsource the delivery of Bikeability cycle training, bike loans, led rides and cycle activities for younger children at a cost not exceeding £225,000 across the maximum three years of the contract;

b)   Authority is delegated to the Sustainability and Climate Change Manager to take all operational decisions to implement the recommendations within this report.

1.            Continue with in-house delivery of Bikeability cycle training, led rides and cycle activities. This would continue to put greater pressure on the team to deliver with reducing outcomes and greater burden in terms of new training guidance issued in light of Covid-19.

2.            Stop delivering Bikeability cycle training, led rides, bike loans and cycle activities. This is not recommended because these activities play an important role in ensuring children and adults are cycling safely. In addition the activities are well received by the public and it would be detrimental to the council’s reputation to cease delivery.