Free water refill points and ‘Thank You for Cycling’ stickers are being introduced across Worcester as part of a new campaign aimed at encouraging more people to travel by bike.
Bike Worcester and Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) have joined forces to launch the scheme, encouraging the use of reusable water bottles and promoting cycling as a sustainable mode of transport.
The campaign includes ‘Refill Here’ stickers for cafes, bars, and hospitality venues, letting the public know they can refill reusable bottles for free.
Samantha McCarthy, chief executive of Worcester BID, said: “We want Worcester to be a city that supports people in choosing active and sustainable ways to get around.
“This initiative is a great way for our business community to show their care for visitors and residents.
“By offering free water refills and recognising those who travel by bike, we can help reduce plastic pollution, enhance the visitor experience and play a part in making Worcester a more welcoming, greener, and forward-thinking city.”
Cyclists take advantage of the refill scheme at Cote Brasserie (Image: Worcester BID)
The scheme, successful in other UK cities, aims to cut down on single-use plastic bottle waste and encourage repeat business, as people often return to venues they’ve visited for refills.
Hospitality businesses across the city are being invited to sign up and display the ‘Refill Here’ stickers.
The stickers not only highlight venues offering free water refills, but can also lead to increased footfall and repeat customers for participating businesses.
Danny Brothwell, chair of Bike Worcester, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Worcester BID on this project.
“Inviting people into establishments to refill water bottles is incredibly welcoming and will also reduce the use of single-use water bottles.
“I’ve made use of similar schemes in other towns and cities, and it’s fantastic that Worcester is also rolling it out.”
The campaign also includes ‘Thanks for Cycling’ stickers on bike racks across the city, to show appreciation for those travelling by bike.
Mr Brothwell said: “The ‘Thank you for Cycling’ message is also something I’ve experienced elsewhere and is a great way to encourage people to choose a bike as a mode of transport.
“Cycling still tops the chart as the most space and energy efficient mode of transport humans have invented.”
