Contractor Fulton Hogan has completed a new learn-to-ride bike course in the grounds of Ilam School that the public can use on weekends and outside school hours.
Modelled on the popular learn-to-ride bike park in Westburn Tce, the course is laid out so kids can practice all the skills they need to ride safely on the road - including balancing, turning, signalling and passing.
Fulton Hogan project manager Daniel Squire said the project was about giving something back to the community.
"We have been doing a lot of work in the Riccarton/Ilam area for Christchurch City Council, building a new cycleway and replacing ageing underground pipes,” he said.
"We know this has caused some disruption for locals.
"Creating, connecting and caring for communities is important to us.
"We hope that the learn-to-ride bike course will be well used by both the school and the wider community and will help kids build their confidence so that they can cycle safely."
Ilam School principal Paul Dolan said the course was a wonderful addition to the school environment, allowing children to practice road safety skills in a fun, safe way.
"The school community is incredibly appreciative of Fulton Hogan’s support and generosity in creating this new asset," Dolan said.
Council acting head of transport Lynette Ellis said it was good to see contractors getting involved in the local community.
"If we want to encourage active forms of transport, we need to teach kids the skills they need to bike safely on our roads and cycleways," Ellis said.
"It is great to see one of our contractors taking the initiative to provide a new course for the community where kids can practise the basics in a safe, traffic-free environment."
