THE Scottish Government has announced a £270,000 investment into Stirling Cycle Hub’s Nextbike scheme.

The scheme was launched 3 years ago and has seen over 37,000 journeys made in that time.

The investment will go towards new infrastructure including smart screens that will give advice on cycle routes as well as tips on bike maintenance.

This is the first large e-bike rental scheme of its kind in Scotland.

The investment announcement was made by Economy Secretary Keith Brown MSP at an event on Friday which was also attended by local MSP Bruce Crawford and Stirling Council’s Environment Spokesperson Councillor Jim Thomson.

Welcoming the funding, Bruce Crawford said:

“This funding will go a long way in building a cycle friendly area across the Forth Valley region.

“Stirling Cycle Hub and their Nextbike scheme have been a real success story for our local area and I am delighted that Transport Scotland are right behind it in developing the future of a cycle friendly Stirling.

“It was great to hear that many of those who are regular users of the bike rental scheme are of older generations. This is a great, easy and enjoyable way of staying physically active and keeping in good shape – particularly if you are older.

“I thoroughly enjoyed joining in on a cycle across the Old Bridge in Stirling and I hope that others will take up the opportunity to leave the car at home and cycle to where they need to be.”