Over 100 cyclists converged on the streets of Belfast for the annual "Ride On Belfast" event, a initiative aimed at promoting the advantages of commuting by bicycle.

The event, funded by Belfast City Council and organised by Cycul, encourages residents to opt for two wheels over four to reduce travel times and enhance overall wellbeing.

The peloton, comprising cyclists of all abilities, commenced its journey at Queen's University before concluding at City Hall. Participants enjoyed refreshments, received bike maintenance support, and gathered active travel information from various local organisations.

Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Paul Doherty, welcomed the cyclists, commending their participation during Bike Week. "Well done to those who came along today during Bike Week to highlight the many positives of choosing cycling an alternative to commuting by car," he stated.

Councillor Doherty emphasised Belfast City Council's commitment to promoting active travel, citing its benefits for air quality, congestion reduction, and fostering a healthier city. He highlighted existing traffic-free routes such as the Forth Meadow Community Greenway, Connswater Community Greenway, Lagan Towpath, and North Foreshore, and reiterated the council's investment in these projects to encourage cycling as a viable alternative.

"Events like Ride On Belfast highlight how cities can thrive when walking and cycling are given priority. It's healthy, fun and informative and I hope it encourages others to re-consider their usual journey and to think about whether cycling could be achievable for them too," Councillor Doherty added.

Stephen McNally from Cycul, one of the event organisers, expressed his delight at the turnout. "We're delighted to see so many people participating in this year's event. We welcomed seasoned and new cycling commuters along with families utilising cargo bikes for the school run at the event today." Mr McNally underscored the event's core message: "Ride on Belfast is the one day in the year when people can experience what it's like cycling to work in a city where cycling is given priority. Not only is it fun, it's an effective, efficient and healthy way of travelling in the city. We hope this persuades not only more people to embrace the simplicity of cycling to work, but also persuades politicians and transport planners to make this an everyday experience – not just one day in the year.”

"Ride On Belfast" is part of a broader range of initiatives by Belfast City Council to boost cycling participation and support active travel across the city. The "Bolder Vision for Belfast" strategy, developed in collaboration with the Department for Communities and the Department for Infrastructure, prioritises walking, cycling, and public transport within the city centre to create more public spaces and improve connectivity with local communities.

Future developments include new active travel infrastructure projects like "Under the Bridges" and the "Belfast Waterfront Framework," which will enhance cycling routes from the Sailortown/City Quays area and across the wider River Lagan area. Additionally, new e-bikes will be introduced to the Belfast Bikes fleet later this year when Beryl Bikes takes over the operation of the city's public bike hire scheme.

Recent inclusive cycling events in Ormeau Park have seen over 200 users try out a variety of free inclusive cycling equipment for all abilities. Furthermore, 150 children participated in free 'learn to cycle' events at community centres city-wide during the spring, with more similar activities planned for the summer.

Further details on upcoming events will be available on belfastcity.gov.uk/events and the council's social media channels. For more information on the council's support for active travel, visit belfastcity.gov.uk/activetravel.