New bicycle repair station on Lagan Towpath at Lisburn welcomed

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon at Parliament Buildings, Stormont. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye

The new station will include a pump and a selection of repair tools providing a convenient ‘pit stop’ for cyclists in need and enabling them to continue on their journey.

The scheme was a joint initiative with the Department for Infrastructure providing the equipment and Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council responsible for its installation and maintenance.

On a visit to the Lagan Valley Island Minister Mallon said: “I am delighted to work in partnership with Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council to deliver this innovative repair station which no doubt will be welcomed by the many cyclists choosing to travel along the towpath to Lisburn and beyond.

“The station will also be beneficial to other path users including those with prams and wheelchair users needing to pump up tyres or for minor maintenance.

“Many of our greenways and towpaths have seen an increase in use over the Covid period with many more people choosing to walk, wheel or cycle.

“As we emerge from Covid and into recovery, I want to encourage people to continue to choose active travel modes of transport and to enjoy the physical and mental health benefits it brings while addressing the climate emergency.

“I am committed to improving active travel infrastructure and facilities and hope that this repair station will be of great benefit to local residents and visitors alike using the towpath.”

Alderman Michael Henderson MBE, Chairman of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Leisure & Community Development Committee said: “I would like to thank Minister Mallon and her officials for the provision of this bicycle repair station that I am confident will be well used.

“The Lagan Towpath is a popular cycle route between Lisburn and Belfast and this cycle hub will provide cyclists with the necessary tools to repair and adjust their bikes if needed.

“It is the second such resource in the council area as there is another located within Billy Neill MBE Country Park on the Comber Greenway.

“The council encourages its residents to get active and benefit from our green spaces and cycle routes. We encourage those exercising in our council area to ‘Share, Respect and Enjoy’ the paths and parks.”