BOOST FOR CYCLISTS

Boost for Cyclists in Dumfries and Galloway

More than 30 local firms in Dumfries and Galloway are set to receive a financial boost to breathe new life into their businesses. The Cycling Fund is injecting a total of £300,000 into the region to help establish the South of Scotland as a prominent cycling destination.

The £300,000 South of Scotland Cycling Infrastructure Fund is supporting a range of tourism businesses, social enterprises, and community groups. This fund provides capital grants ranging from £3,000 to £25,000 to organizations that cater to visitors, enabling them to enhance their cycling facilities.

One of the beneficiaries of the Cycling Fund is Ernespie Farm in Castle Douglas, managed by the McMiken family. The farm offers a variety of attractions for all ages, including a farmhouse kitchen, garden centre, gift shop, and various soft play facilities. With the support from the Cycling Infrastructure Fund, Ernespie Farm has created a repair station equipped with washing facilities and lockers to cater to the growing number of cyclists visiting the farm.

David McMiken of Ernespie Farm noted the increasing popularity of cycling post-COVID and the launch of the Kirkpatrick C2C as contributing factors to the rise in cycling visitors. Recognizing the potential for growth in the cycling market in Dumfries and Galloway, McMiken applied for funding to improve their cycling facilities.

The investments from the fund will also target facilities for cyclists participating in the Kirkpatrick C2C and 7Stanes trail centres. These enhancements include bike storage, racks, power charging sockets, locks, wash areas, drying equipment, and repair stations, among others.

The South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) administered the fund, with support from the South of Scotland Cycling Partnership, a coalition of local and national organizations with a strategic 10-year plan. The aim is to leverage the region’s hosting of the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships and UCI Bike Region Label to drive economic, social, and environmental benefits for the local community.

Russel Griggs OBE, Chair of SOSE, highlighted the aspiration of the South of Scotland Cycling Partnership to establish the region as a premier cycling destination globally. The fund’s support for 30 local tourism organizations aims to adapt their business models to accommodate the growing influx of cycling visitors.

Business Minister Richard Lochhead praised the initiative for developing cycling infrastructure to boost the local economy and support businesses. Gordon Smith, destination development director at VisitScotland, emphasized the role of cycling in driving tourism in the South of Scotland and the importance of enhancing facilities to attract visitors across the region.

The investments in cycling infrastructure not only improve amenities but also promote the equitable distribution of tourism benefits throughout the region. By collaborating with partners, businesses, and communities, the South of Scotland aims to elevate its profile as a premier destination for visitors and events on a global scale, fostering sustainable tourism growth.

In conclusion, the funding injection from the Cycling Fund in Dumfries and Galloway signifies a significant step towards establishing the region as a leading cycling destination. The strategic investments in cycling infrastructure will not only enhance visitor experiences but also stimulate economic growth and promote sustainable tourism practices across the South of Scotland.