cycle2work
Southampton University is intending to re-introduce adminstration for this scheme in conjunction with Halfords.
John Waugh, the university transport manager, voices his opinion on the scheme:
a superb idea, but are Halfords really the best suppliers?
John feels that local bike shops should be given the chance to pitch for the contract. Often good local shops are willing to be more flexible about sourcing a variety of bikes, and may even sell second-hand bikes (useful for service). People purchasing a bike may prefer to do so from a local shop whose after-sales service they trust, with friendly staff who cycle themselves. Finally, John emphasises that as one of the biggest employers in the area the university has a responsibility to the community which could include supporting local businesses above countrywide chains.
Other readers may have opinions on this issue. If you want to comment on the cycle2work scheme for the university, or on its proposed administration through Halfords, comment here or email us. The university is in the process of changing transport services manager so there is currently no obvious contact (meep?).
I have to agree with bikeuser that using Halfords to run the cycle2work scheme is a kick in the teeth for local bike shops.
I would also question the wisdom of this decision on safety grounds. Given that cycle2work is quite likely to attract novice cyclists, and given that Halfords is often staffed by people who know nothing about bikes, I think we’re risking a novice cyclists riding an unsuitable bike which hasn’t been properly assembled, or which won’t be safety checked after it’s been on the road for a few weeks.
This looks like a decision taken by somebody who knows little about cycling (as it would seem are most decisions relating to cyclists).
Comment by Martin_Edney — October 23, 2006 @ 10:10 am