QMU’S new bike hire scheme offers students more sustainable travel options
QMU is strengthening its commitment to sustainable travel with the launch of a new student bike hire scheme, beginning January 2026.
From the start of the semester, 10 brand-new bicycles will be available for students to hire through the University’s Cycle Connections initiative. Each hire package includes essential safety equipment – lights, a lock, and a helmet – ensuring students who are taking part in the cycling scheme can be safe, secure and confident when using the new bikes.
The scheme allows students to hire a bike for the duration of a semester at a cost of just £40. The University is grateful for the generous donation from Cycling UK’s Cycle Access Fund, which has made this initiative possible and has helped support QMU’s mission to make active travel more accessible and affordable for QMU students.
Professor Richard Butt, Deputy Principal of QMU, uses his bike to cycle to and from the University campus, taking advantage of our proximity to National Cycle Route 1. He said:
Encouraging sustainable, active travel is a key part of our sustainability strategy. This scheme not only reduces carbon emissions, it helps us expand the package of support that we offer students to improve their overall experience of QMU. We are therefore delighted that this new bike hire scheme responds to the cost of living increases by providing a more affordable travel option while also promoting an active lifestyle.
Students can sign up to hire a bike from January via the QMU website: Cycle Connections Facilities.
For further media information contact Lynne Russell, Communications Manager, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, E: lrussell@qmu.ac.uk (copy to pressoffice@qmu.ac.uk) M: 07711 011239.
