New bike repair stand supports local "Changing Gears" initiative

EQUANS has shown it's support for a local initiative called "Changing Gears" by donating and installing a new bike repair stand for public use.

We have been working alongside resident organisation, Noel Park Big Local (NPBL) with their plains for a social enterprise called "Changing Gears". This new venture will provide new jobs, skills training and supports a local business that repairs and sells bicycles.

NPBL received lottery funding several years ago but has struggled to push their ideas forward, so EQUANS' Social Value Manager, Julian Sanz, has been having regular meetings with representatives from NPBL to discuss ways we could help achieve their vision.

On 10th September, EQUANS staff donated and installed a brand new bike repair stand which is free for use by the local community and the general public. The new stand is estimated to cater for more than 100 local residents annually!

Euclides Montes from Noel Park Big Local said this about the support from EQUANS: "Your help has been invaluable, we have had some great ideas but needed some professional assistance to help get things moving. The idea of a container fitted out to our specifications had never crossed our minds but is the perfect solution for our vision. The new public bike repair stand is already being used by local residents and is giving them a small taste of what Changing Gears will be all about."