Louth Disability Cycling Club have officially launched their new Inclusive Cycling Hub and Inclusive Mobile Cycling Unit at Dundalk Sports Complex, Muirhevnamore. This is the latest Variety Ireland Cycling Inclusion Centre of Excellence, and marks a significant milestone in the development of accessible cycling opportunities for people with mobility issues across County Louth and beyond.
This landmark initiative is the result of a unique partnership between Louth Disability Cycling Club, Variety – the Children’s Charity of Ireland, the HSE, the Department of Transport, and the Department of Children, Disability & Equality. Together, these organisations have created the first phase of an ambitious programme designed to make cycling accessible to people of all ages and abilities throughout the region.
Operating from Dundalk Sports Complex, the new Inclusive Cycling Hub will provide access to a comprehensive fleet of specially adapted bicycles suitable for people with a wide range of mobility needs. The project has also been made possible through the outstanding support of Louth County Council, whose commitment to the initiative included preparing the site and facilitating the installation of a dedicated storage unit to securely house the specialist bicycles.
The official launch also celebrated the arrival of the club’s new Inclusive Mobile Cycling Unit, which will begin operating in August. The mobile unit will enable Louth Disability Cycling Club to bring inclusive cycling directly to communities, schools and organisations across the north-east and Midlands, ensuring that many more people can experience the freedom and enjoyment of cycling regardless of their ability.
The mobile service forms part of Variety Ireland’s national Inclusive Cycling Mobile Units programme, which delivers safe, professionally supported cycling events throughout Ireland using specially adapted mobility bicycles. The initiative removes barriers to participation and creates opportunities for people with disabilities and mobility challenges to enjoy cycling in a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment.
Kevin O’Brien of Variety – the Children’s Charity of Ireland said: “Our partnership is a testament to the dedication, compassion and commitment shown by everyone involved at Louth Disability Cycling Club, who continue to lead the way in supporting inclusive cycling for people with mobility issues in their community. “Organisations like Louth Disability Cycling Club make a lasting difference by creating opportunities, providing vital services and ensuring that every person with mobility issues has the chance to reach their full potential. Together with our partners in the HSE, the Department of Transport and the Department of Children, Disability & Equality, we are delighted to celebrate this important achievement and recognise the positive impact the club continues to have across County Louth and beyond. Their commitment to inclusion, care and community is truly inspiring.”
Paul Callan of Louth Disability Cycling Club welcomed the launch, saying:
“For the past three years, Louth Disability Cycling Club has worked closely with Variety Ireland to provide safe and inclusive cycling opportunities for people with mobility issues throughout Dundalk and the surrounding region. As demand for our services has grown, we are delighted to strengthen this partnership alongside the HSE, the Department of Transport and the Department of Children, Disability & Equality. “We would also like to sincerely thank Louth County Council for preparing the groundworks for the installation of our storage container here at Muirhevnamore. Their support has been instrumental in making this project a reality. “Our dedicated team is committed to making cycling more accessible, enjoyable and inclusive for people of all ages and abilities throughout County Louth. We provide adapted bicycles and supportive coaching that enable individuals with physical, sensory and learning disabilities to experience the freedom, confidence and health benefits that cycling brings. “Every session is delivered in a safe and welcoming environment where participants can build cycling skills, improve their fitness and develop lasting friendships. Our volunteers and trained coaches work closely with cyclists and their families to ensure everyone feels supported, valued and included. “Beyond promoting physical activity, our club helps reduce social isolation by creating opportunities for connection, achievement and enjoyment. The addition of our Inclusive Mobile Cycling Unit now allows us to expand our reach even further by supporting local schools, community groups and organisations while raising awareness of inclusive cycling throughout the region. Through our commitment to accessibility and equality, we hope to empower more individuals to enjoy cycling and become active members of their communities.”
Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “Louth County Council is proud to support the launch of the Louth Disability Cycling Hub and Inclusive Mobile Cycling Unit, an initiative that reflects our commitment to building inclusive, healthy and connected communities.
“The new hub at Muirhevnamór will provide people with disabilities and mobility challenges with greater opportunities to enjoy the benefits of cycling in a safe and welcoming environment, while the mobile unit will bring these opportunities directly into communities across County Louth and beyond.
“I would like to commend Louth Disability Cycling Club, Variety Ireland, the HSE, the Department of Transport and the Department of Children, Disability & Equality for their vision and dedication in bringing this project to fruition. Their collaboration has created a valuable resource that will enhance inclusion, wellbeing and community participation across County Louth.”
HSE Assistant National Director for Disability Services, Aoife O’Donohue commented, “This Inclusive Cycling Hub and Inclusive Mobile Cycling Unit represents a big step forward in ensuring that cycling is accessible to everyone. This initiative will create meaningful opportunities for participation, recreation and personal development for people of all abilities. The HSE has warmly welcomes the programme and is delighted to support an initiative that promotes health, wellbeing, independence and social inclusion within local communities. I would like to thank everyone involved in bringing this project to life. The commitment, support and collaboration shown by all partners have been instrumental in making this initiative a reality, and we are sincerely grateful.”
The launch represents another important chapter in Variety Ireland’s ongoing commitment to creating inclusive opportunities for children and young adults with disabilities and additional needs throughout Ireland.
The Inclusive Cycling Hub and Inclusive Mobile Cycling Unit represents a big step forward in ensuring that cycling is accessible to everyone. This initiative will create meaningful opportunities for participation, recreation and personal development for people of all abilities. The HSE has warmly welcomes the programme and is delighted to support an initiative that promotes health, wellbeing, independence and social inclusion within local communities. I would like to thank everyone involved in bringing this project to life. The commitment, support and collaboration shown by all partners have been instrumental in making this initiative a reality, and we are sincerely grateful.
For further details contact Louth Disability Cycling Club on 083 173 9580 or info@ldcc.ie
