Birtley centre pedals change for local residents

A North East community hub is helping residents swap cars for walking and cycling.

The Birtley Active Travel Centre, based in the same building as the refurbished Birtley Library, on Durham Road, opened in April to promote walking, wheeling and cycling. 

North East mayor Kim McGuinness recently visited the centre to see its impact firsthand.

Run by national charity Sustrans and funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the centre offers activities for all ages, including guided walks, cycling training and maintenance, short-term cycle loans and support for active journeys to work or education. 

It also provides volunteering and employment opportunities.

Residents have reported increased independence, confidence and improved health and wellbeing since taking part. 

Mayor McGuinness said: “What’s happening here in Birtley at the new Active Travel Centre is exactly the kind of transformative change our region needs.

“By building confidence on bikes and on foot, offering vital support into work, and creating a welcoming space for families and wheelchair users, this hub is empowering people of all ages. 

“I’m proud to back this project; it’s opening doors and that is exactly what transport should do – not just help people get around but help them get on.”

Councillor John McElroy, cabinet member for the environment and transport at Gateshead Council, added: “Active travel benefits everyone – both for individuals and for our wider communities, by improving health and wellbeing while reducing congestion and improving air quality in Gateshead.

“We are committed, as a local authority and as a region, to providing safe and appealing transport choices. 

“An attractive active travel offer is a vital part of that, and we hope to see the offer of activities and support in both Birtley and Leam Lane continue to grow across Gateshead, making it as easy as possible for anyone to make more journeys actively.”

With around 67 per cent of journeys between one and five miles completed by car nationally, the centre’s work highlights the potential for reducing congestion and improving air quality while encouraging sustainable, active travel across the community.

Matt Barber, head of growth and partnerships, England at Sustrans, added: “We were delighted to welcome mayor Kim McGuinness to the Birtley Active Travel Centre, and to showcase the impactful work we are delivering to the local community, thanks to the support of Gateshead Council.

“From short term cycle loans, to ‘Dr Bike’ cycle checks, and cycle confidence sessions, to led walks, and support, advice, and planning for everyday journeys – we are here for everyone; to help make it easier for them to walk, wheel, and cycle.”

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