Bike boxes return to island parks this summer

An initiative which allows young children to practice cycling and balance skills in a safe environment is due to return to island parks.

The Bike Box initiative from the BeActive team at the Health Improvement Commission offers balance bikes in Guernsey parks which are free for public use.

The commission said balance bikes, designed without pedals, are a "fantastic way for children to develop the balance and coordination skills needed to ride a pedal bike".

Active travel officer at the commission Amy Woollaston said the initiative, which was trialled in 2025, was a "big hit with families" and could encourage active travel when children are older.

The bike boxes will be positioned near the children's play areas at Saumarez and Beau Sejour Parks from mid-July until the end of Summer.

Woollaston said the initiative allows people without balance bikes or outside space to encourage their children to learn how to ride.

"If everyone gets the opportunity to learn to ride when they are young, then we have a better chance of more people choosing cycling for their everyday journeys once they are adults," she said.

The commission said learning to cycle offered "numerous benefits for children both physically and mentally, from developing cognitive and physical motor skills, to feeling more confident and independent, and becoming more environmentally conscious".

Woollaston said: "We took a risk last year, hopeful that the public would look after the bikes during use and return them to their box afterwards and were thrilled that this was mostly the case.

"This year we have been lucky to receive some funding from the Marks and Spencer's Community Fund which has allowed us to purchase some more robust balance bikes and helmets."

The commission said it has also refreshed painted road markings, including yellow lines and mini roundabouts at Saumarez Park which children can make use of to develop some road safety awareness.

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