Well-loved local community organisation Leeds Bike Mill are raising £15,000 to move their bike recycling and training workshop to a new premises on Meanwood Road.
The social enterprise are setting up a purpose built space to expand their work and give their organisation long term security. Since launching their crowdfunder at the start of March, they are already halfway to their target, having raised over £8000 towards their cause.
Co-Director Naomi Brown said: “We’re so heartened by all the support we’ve received so far. It’s really amazing to know that people believe in what we do and want to help us make this big move.”
The project will use the funds raised to set up a dedicated community learning workshop, so they can run courses for different groups throughout the week, as well as improving the condition of their new building, and buying essential equipment. Thanks to the money raised so far they have already started insulating the new space and installing water pipes.
One recent donor to the campaign said: “These provide a wonderful service to Leeds – very excited to see what their future holds!”
Leeds Bike Mill set up their organisation in 2014, with the aim of offering affordable, reliable second hand bikes, and supporting people in Leeds to get cycling. Since then they have diverted over 3600 bikes from landfill, given away over 1000 bikes, and taught bike maintenance to 1600 people.
Many people in Leeds will be familiar with their current workshop – a first floor unit on Mabgate Green where you can browse recycled bikes and accessories, or attend one of their free courses.
Co-Founder Ben Milner said: “We are so proud of our workshop, which we built ourselves from scratch. But it’s not practical being on the first floor and we’ve not been able to renew our lease here.”
The group of directors, who run Leeds Bike Mill together as a co-operative, are all bike mechanics themselves, as well as sharing a passion for making cycling more affordable and inclusive.
At a time when more and more people are getting on a bike whether for fun, for health or to get around, Leeds Bike Mill’s work is more in demand than ever. Their new workshop on the North edge of the city will be a trusted hub for Leeds cyclists for years to come.
To contribute to the fundraising effort, please visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/LeedsBikeMill before 14th April.
