Transport for Greater Manchester has kicked off the process to find a brand to become the first-ever sponsor of the region’s new Cycle Hire Scheme. The scheme forms an important part of the Bee Network – Greater Manchester’s vision for an integrated London-style transport system and will play an important role in achieving Greater Manchester’s commitment to be carbon-neutral by 2038.Soft launched by Mayor Andy Burnham in November 2021, the scheme will be second in size only to London’s, with 1,500 bikes -- including 300 e-bikes -- enabling members of the public to hire bicycles for journeys from fixed cycle hire stations across Manchester, Salford and Trafford. TfGM is now making the opportunity available for a brand to sponsor the scheme and is looking for a partner that shares its values and has a passion for community, sustainability, diversity - and importantly the enthusiasm and commitment to getting even more people pedalling across Greater Manchester. This opportunity would see a commercial partner playing a key role in the growth of the scheme and gaining unprecedented exposure across the conurbation.Transport sponsorship specialist PHAR Partnerships has been appointed by TfGM to lead the process to secure a sponsor for the scheme. Andy Burnham, Mayor for Greater Manchester, commented: “We created a cycle hire scheme in Greater Manchester to give more people access to an affordable, accessible and sustainable form of transport. As the scheme continues to grow, we’re looking for a partner to work alongside us, to continue delivering a first-class bike hire service that will give hundreds of thousands of Greater Manchester residents and workers an affordable, convenient and quick way to get around.“Enabling active travel is a key target of the Bee Network, and the cycle hire scheme - along with significant investment in world class, segregated routes – will ensure cycling and walking is a safe and accessible transport option.“This is a really exciting opportunity for an organisation to get involved and make a significant impact in Manchester, Salford and Trafford.”Dame Sarah Storey, GM’s Active Travel Commissioner: “Since the cycle hire scheme launched in November 2021, ridership figures have exceeded expectations, which is a testament to how well needed the scheme is, and excitingly this is just the beginning.We know the impact cycling has on people’s physical and mental health, so having a way to travel that supports health is a vital component in a liveable city region. Not only that but having more people make short journeys on foot or bike has a significant impact on congestion and, ultimately, the environment. “It’s a really exciting moment in the progress of GM’s cycle hire scheme, and now’s the time to find a partner who will help the scheme continue to grow and support the region's ambitions to deliver the Bee Network.”Parties interested in obtaining further information and/or expressing interest in the sponsorship opportunity should contact David Hoggins, Partnerships Director at PHAR Partnerships:Email: david.hoggins@pharpartnerships.com
