Walsall residents are being encouraged to get back in the saddle through a cycling initiative being delivered across the borough to support healthier, connected and more active communities.
On Ya Bike is funded by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) Active Travel and Capability Fund and is part of the wider West Midlands Cycle & Walk programme being delivered in partnership by Walsall Council and Cycling UK.
Over the summer, the On Ya Bike project has been providing a range of free cycling support activities, including Dr Bike sessions at Walsall Arboretum and learn-to-ride training at Willenhall Memorial Park, helping people of all ages and abilities gain the confidence and skills needed to cycle safely and regularly.
Dr Bike sessions offer residents free bicycle safety checks and minor repairs, ensuring bikes are roadworthy and safe to ride, while learn-to-ride sessions will give beginners and those returning to cycling the opportunity to develop their skills in a supportive environment.
The project also aims to create a network of Cycle Ambassadors who will champion cycling within their local communities, encourage others to take up cycling and help build a stronger cycling culture across Walsall. Ambassadors will have the opportunity to attend a free one-day Group Leader course being delivered by Cycling UK at Walsall Arboretum. Aimed at community groups and cyclists who want to share their enthusiasm of cycling with others, there are 14 spaces are available on 12 September 2026, with places filling up fast.
The initiative supports wider efforts to improve health and wellbeing and provide residents with more travel choices throughout the borough.
“ On Ya Bike is designed to help more residents access cycling opportunities across the borough. Through training, maintenance support and community activities, the project offers practical ways for people to build confidence and enjoy cycling, whatever their experience level. “
Councillor Matt Eason, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing
Walsall Council
Further On Ya Bike sessions will be taking place at the Willenhall Memorial Park Bandstand on Saturdays in August and September (dates subject to change). The sessions are free to attend. It is recommended to bring your own bike and helmet where possible.
29 August
5 September
12 September
19 September
26 September
3 October
10 October
17 October
24 October (family session only)
Family sessions will take place between 9am and 11am, and adult sessions will take place between 11:30am and 1:30pm. For more information, contact Paulette at giveagirlabike22@gmail.com.
About On Ya Bike
The project is funded by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) Active Travel and Capability Fund, is part of the West Midlands Cycle & Walk programme, and is being delivered by Cycling UK.
On Ya Bike is a community cycling project designed to increase cycling participation across Walsall. Through bicycle maintenance support, cycle training and community engagement, the project aims to improve health and wellbeing, encourage cycling and active initiatives and develop a borough-wide network of Cycle Ambassadors.
The Group Leader course will be delivered on 12 September and there are 14 spaces available. For more information and to sign up for the course, please contact Michelle Smith, Cycling Development Officer at Cycling UK (michelle.smith@cyclinguk.org).