How would you spend £10k promoting cycling in your neighbourhood?

photo LCC has administered hundreds of thousands of pounds in cycling grants over the past few years 

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On 8th March, the Community Cycling Fund for London opens its second funding round.
£5,000 and £10,000 grants will be available for enthusiasts to promote cycling projects in their community. 

Please note that individuals are not eligible to apply. Application forms will be available for download from 8th March.

Any community group or organisation can apply for funding from the Community Cycling Fund for London, which can be spent on bicycles, training and other necessities to promote cycling in your neighbourhood.

The grants are administered by LCC, and funded by Transport for London and the Big Lottery Fund. The first round of applications has closed, but a second round takes place from 8-26 March 2010.

Ben Plowden, director of integrated programme delivery at TfL said: “We are encouraging new recruits to the mayor’s 'cycle revolution' and we are here to help local communities turn their ideas into actions to promote pedal power.

"This year, we’re offering increased grants to give local cycling champions the opportunity to think bigger and offer better opportunities to get more people cycling and people cycling more often.”

If you want to apply, download the application form on the right (from 8 March 2010). Read the terms and conditions before filling in the form and use the Community cycling toolkit for more information about cycle training, bike maintenance and other frequently asked questions.

Community cycling helping in your area
The grant scheme has been administered by LCC since 2007 to support projects for people under-represented as cyclists, especially women, children and young people, ethnic groups, and people with disabilities.

The funding has enabled over 3000 people a year to experience the benefits of cycling. In addition to the transport outcomes, people taking part in projects have also cited increased self-esteem, health benefits, greater social integration and improved wellbeing.

London-wide success in cycling services
LCC community cycling officer Rosie Tharp said, "These grants are a real success story in promoting cycling in Greater London.

"In recent years, LCC staff have helped steer over £500,000 into projects that provide a cost-effective and measurable public benefit.

"Cycling is more than an end in itself. It's a very adaptable means of tackling societal problems, from environmental issues to community development and social cohesion.

"This year, we particularly welcome applications from the outer boroughs, where the need to encourage more cycling is greatest."