University of Limerick President Professor Kerstin Mey has launched a new bike rental scheme in a bid to encourage more students to use sustainable and active travel when travelling to and from campus.
The fleet of 78 bikes, which will be available to hire from next week, are available at a cost of €30 per semester. Having listened to feedback from students, two styles of bike will be available: Bimas Transporter Dutch-style bikes, which offer greater utility with more storage space, and a Raleigh Pioneer, which is a traditional commuter-style bike.
In addition to increasing active transport options available on campus, the CycUL scheme is part of the University’s climate action commitments. Launched in May 2023, the Climate Action Roadmap 2030 sets out the ambitious actions and projects as UL works toward achieving carbon neutrality.
UL President, Professor Kerstin Mey, said: “We are incredibly proud of our cycle-friendly riverside campus, and I hope that the CycUL scheme will improve both student access and mobility on campus, and offer a sense of freedom to explore the city and its surrounds.
“This is another important step in our climate action plan, and our commitment to achieving a carbon neutral campus by 2030. I hope to see many of our students enjoying the benefits of the CycUL scheme over the coming weeks and months.”
University of Limerick’s two campuses are connected by a 4.5km riverside cycleway that starts at Lock Quay Bridge in the city and ends at the UL Boat House, while extensions to the existing greenway will mean that students will in future be able to cycle as far as Killaloe on dedicated cycle paths.
Sarah Kennedy, Healthy UL Manager, said: “Sustainability is a key focus for UL, and this project shows our dedication to creating a healthy campus for people and planet alike. The Healthy UL team is striving to make the healthier choice the easier choice and as affordable as possible, and we are excited about the benefits that the CycUL scheme will offer not only for active travel, but also in cutting congestion and the carbon footprint of the UL community.”
To support cycling on campus, UL runs free maintenance classes for students each semester, and a bike mechanic operates on Tuesdays in the Student Life Courtyard as part of the weekly Farmers’ Market.
CycUL bikes will be available to hire from October 17 and will be located at the First7 Weeks Hub in the Student Courtyard. A deposit of €50 is required from anyone wishing to hire the bikes, which will be refunded once the bike is returned at the end of the semester. A set of lights and a lock will be provided with each bike.
Any students interested in using the service can contact cycUL@ul.ie to register their interest.
