Cork South Central Fine Gael TD Jerry Buttimer has urged local businesses to support a Public Bike Scheme for Cork. A symposium for interested stakeholders will take place in Millennium Hall, City Hall, Cork on Monday, November 7 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
“The viability of a public bikes scheme depends on involvement by the local community. The symposium being organised by Cork City Council and Minister of State Alan Kelly TD is the next step in determining the appetite in Cork for a public bike scheme.
“The National Transport Authority has analyzed the potential scope of a public bike scheme in Cork and it has also looked at funding, cost and revenue options. These reports are available at www.nationaltransport.ie. The reports suggest that Cork would have about 300 bikes and about 2,250 subscribers.
It is anticipated that the capital cost for the scheme in Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford will be €6.4 million. The operating costs could be €23 million spread evenly over 14 years. If the scheme is to be a success in Cork we will need local businesses to actively support the initiative.
“When the successful dublinbikes scheme was launched outdoor advertising played a significant role in funding its rollout. Since then companies have reduced their advertising spend which could mean the same structure will not be as successful in the current climate. The reports look at other models such as selling naming rights or sponsorship competition.
“I would encourage any interested parties, bike shops, cycle clubs and local business groups to attend the symposium. If the scheme is to be rolled out we must prove that it will be commercially viable and that it has widespread support.”