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The CTC Approved scheme will accredit outlets providing facilities ideal
for cyclists and their bikes. The scheme has the backing of Sustrans and
could also involve the YHA.
Cyclists seeing the CTC Approved window sticker will know that venues
offer secure bike storage, a drying room, hot drinks and puncture repair
tools. The initiative will establish a recognised UK-wide quality
assurance mark and give all cyclists access to the CTC Approved listing, said CTC.
Pilot schemes have already run in Scotland and Devon. Venues satisfying
accreditation requirements will be listed on CTC’s website. They will
also receive a certificate of accreditation, the sticker and promotional
advice. Sale items will be an optional extra.
Youth hostels able to satisfy the accreditation criteria will be invited
to sign up and Sustrans’ 1,300 Volunteer Community Rangers will be asked
to recommend businesses on National Cycle Network routes. CTC is to mail
more than 3,000 businesses, some of which are already listed in Cyclists
Welcome, CTC’s services guide for cyclists. Independent youth hostels
will also be invited to join the scheme.
Matt Mallinder, CTC’s Senior Commercial Officer said: "CTC Approved will
establish one recognised standard for cyclists. It will be an
opportunity for businesses to attract more custom and give cyclists the
assurance that places they have chosen will satisfy basic requirements.
The criteria are not difficult to meet and for outlets in tourist areas,
particularly those hit by foot and mouth, it will help boost business
back to pre-FMD levels by encouraging more people to cycle on
countryside routes."
CTC is to submit an application for additional support from the
Countryside Agency. If funding is forthcoming, the CTC Approved list
will be free to non-CTC members as well.
Accreditation will cost £15 or £10 for those already listed in Cyclists Welcome.
