Louth Disability Cycling Club has launched a new Inclusive Cycling Hub and Mobile Cycling Unit at Dundalk Sports Centre in Muirhevnamór.
The new service will give people with a wide range of mobility needs access to specially adapted bicycles, while also bringing inclusive cycling opportunities to communities, schools, and organisations across the North East and Midlands.
The project has been supported by Louth County Council, which prepared the site and facilitated the installation of a dedicated storage unit to securely house the specialist bicycles.
Operating from Dundalk Sports Complex, the new Inclusive Cycling Hub will provide access to a comprehensive fleet of specially adapted bicycles suitable for people with a wide range of mobility needs and will enable Louth Disability Cycling Club to bring inclusive cycling directly to communities, schools and organisations across the north-east and Midlands, ensuring that many more people can experience the freedom and enjoyment of cycling regardless of their ability.
The mobile service forms part of Variety Ireland’s national Inclusive Cycling Mobile Units programme, which delivers safe, professionally supported cycling events throughout Ireland using specially adapted mobility bicycles. The initiative removes barriers to participation and creates opportunities for people with disabilities and mobility challenges to enjoy cycling in a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment.
Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “Louth County Council is proud to support the launch of the Louth Disability Cycling Hub and Inclusive Mobile Cycling Unit, an initiative that reflects our commitment to building inclusive, healthy and connected communities.
“The new hub at Muirhevnamór will provide people with disabilities and mobility challenges with greater opportunities to enjoy the benefits of cycling in a safe and welcoming environment, while the mobile unit will bring these opportunities directly into communities across County Louth and beyond.
“I would like to commend Louth Disability Cycling Club, Variety Ireland, the HSE, the Department of Transport and the Department of Children, Disability & Equality for their vision and dedication in bringing this project to fruition. Their collaboration has created a valuable resource that will enhance inclusion, wellbeing and community participation across County Louth.”
Kevin O’Brien, Variety – the Children’s Charity of Ireland, said: “Our partnership is a testament to the dedication, compassion and commitment shown by everyone involved at Louth Disability Cycling Club, who continue to lead the way in supporting inclusive cycling for people with mobility issues in their community.
“Organisations like Louth Disability Cycling Club make a lasting difference by creating opportunities, providing vital services and ensuring that every person with mobility issues has the chance to reach their full potential.”
Paul Callan, Louth Disability Cycling Club, welcomed the launch, saying: “For the past three years, Louth Disability Cycling Club has worked closely with Variety Ireland to provide safe and inclusive cycling opportunities for people with mobility issues throughout Dundalk and the surrounding region.
“As demand for our services has grown, we are delighted to strengthen this partnership alongside the HSE, the Department of Transport and the Department of Children, Disability & Equality.
“We would also like to sincerely thank Louth County Council for preparing the groundworks for the installation of our storage container here at Muirhevnamór. Their support has been instrumental in making this project a reality.
“The addition of our Inclusive Mobile Cycling Unit will allow us to expand our reach even further by supporting local schools, community groups and organisations while raising awareness of inclusive cycling throughout the region. Through our commitment to accessibility and equality, we hope to empower more individuals to enjoy cycling and become active members of their communities.”
The launch represents an important step forward for inclusive recreation and active travel in County Louth, while also contributing to Variety Ireland’s ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for children and young adults with disabilities and additional needs throughout Ireland.
