Cycle scheme proves popular among employers

Dozens of major companies have committed themselves to the government’s new ‘cycle to work’ initiative.

Under the scheme, private and public sector employers are encouraging their staff to ditch cars and public transport options for bikes, by providing enhanced cycling facilities.

Designated storage spaces, changing areas and access to the government’s generous tax break scheme will all be offered to workers at participating companies.

Transport secretary Andrew Adonis explained that the scheme would not only help staff get fit but would also reduce carbon emissions.

He said: "If proper facilities were more widely available, I believe far more people would cycle to work. At present only three per cent do so. We could double or treble that figure with proper bike storage and changing facilities and safe cycle routes."

Lord Adonis added: "The number of GlaxoSmithKline employees cycling to work has tripled since they introduced the right facilities at their headquarters. I see no reason why the Cycle to Work Guarantee can’t spread this success widely."

So far, more than 70 major public and private sector firms have signed up to the initiative.

Compare the cycle insurance market

A highly-competitive market has now prompted one cycle insurance provider to include third party and personal injury cover as standard.

A spokesperson for the ETA said: “Just as with any other type of insurance, it is vital that people shop around – many cyclists are paying over the odds for the extras that we include for free.”