Young people encouraged to get active through free cycling and walking scheme

Published 25 June 2026

A programme of free cycling and walking activities will be on offer for young people over the school holidays as part of the Summer of Sport initiative.

West Dunbartonshire Council's Active Travel has partnered with Vale of Leven Trust and Dumbarton Football Club Trust to expand active travel opportunities for young people.

The initiative builds on the work of Vale of Leven Trust, which already provides a wide range of cycling and walking activities including cycling skills training, led rides, bike maintenance, bike loans and health walks.

Through the Summer of Sport Funding, the programme will be expanded to offer a second delivery base at Dumbarton Football Club.

Supported by Cycling Scotland, the weekly sessions will launch from Monday, 29 June, offering opportunities to learn to cycle, access bikes and equipment and receive support with bike maintenance and safety.

Councillor David McBride Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development said:  "The project will expand access to cycling and walking activities across our communities, helping young people build the skills and confidence needed to use active travel for everyday journeys. This includes supporting the delivery of Bikeability in schools and ensuring more children are able to benefit fully from cycle training by introducing earlier learn to ride opportunities."

The national Summer of Sport initiative is inspired by the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and funded by the Scottish Government through sportscotland.  

Councillor William Rooney, Convener of Corporate Services, added: “The Summer of Sport is not just about the summer; it aims to remove barriers and be the first step in creating new habits that help our young people lead happier and healthier lives. This programme is a prime example of our partner organisations working in tandem to improve the health and wellbeing of our communities.”

For more information on the programme and all other summer of sport initiatives visit the website at: Summer of Sport 2026 | West Dunbartonshire Council