Bicycle User Groups

LU cycle to work dayWhat are they? 
A Bicycle User Group (or BUG) is a group of workplace cyclists, or people interested in cycling, meeting together on a regular basis.
 
 
What are they for?
The purposes of the group can be twofold, for lobbying changes for cycle commuters in the workplace, and for leisure. Some BUGs meet only to discuss cycling to work issues, others regularly go on weekend and evening rides.
 
A BUG should be open to all - for ‘bike users’ as opposed to ‘cyclists’.  It's important to get a wide range of bike users involved, not just for hardened enthusiasts who bike to work every day, come rain or shine.
 
A BUG is a way of focussing cyclists’ views and coming up with a coherent plan to improve facilities and develop cycling friendly policies. A group representative can then feed ideas into the agenda of relevant departments eg Estates and HR. 
 
Typical BUG activities can include:
  • newsletters or web / intranet sites
  • presentations and talks on cycling
  • bike buddy schemes for new/returning cyclists
  • Dr Bike / maintenance sessions
  • bike repair buddies
  • advice / info to new/returning cyclists
 
How do I set one up at my workplace?
To set one up you need to arrange a first meeting at your workplace, at a convenient time, perhaps over a lunch break. Appoint a chairman who can co-ordinate the meetings and set an agenda for the next meeting. It might be an idea to collect email addresses and create an email user group too.
 
Local employers including Lancaster University, Lancaster and Morecambe College and University of Cumbria all run regular and successful BUGs which have enabled positive change for cyclists at these workplaces.
 
Lancaster City Council has also run a number of cycle forums and focus groups, and currently has a cycle rep for each service within the council. 
 
 
More Information:
If you would like to set up a BUG at your workplace and would like some help please contact us at celebratingcycling@lancaster.gov.uk or call 01524 582616.