Over the past decade, cycling in Ireland has grown thanks to investment in walking and cycling infrastructure; however bike theft remains a serious barrier, especially for teens who can’t easily afford a replacement.
To address this, Fingal County Council has launched “Second Spin”, a pilot initiative being run in conjunction with the Rediscovery Centre in Ballymun.
The council’s Active Travel Unit has launched the scheme to help provide free, upcycled bikes to teenagers who have had theirs stolen, encouraging them to keep cycling while promoting the circular economy.
Donated or abandoned bikes are refurbished, and participants can re-donate later if they are able to purchase a new bike.
By teaming up with the Rediscovery Centre the council hopes this unique approach will also restore teenagers’ independence after bike theft, making it easier for them to keep cycling as their main way of getting around rather than relying on getting lifts from parents or needing to take a bus.
Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary welcomed the initiative, saying: “this unique project supports young people who have faced the distress of bike theft to get back on their bikes, helping them reclaim their freedom, but also encouraging a greener, more sustainable future.”
Cycling gives teenagers more than just a way to get about – it helps to keep them fit, supports healthy growth, builds lasting active habits, and can help them manage stress in a busy world.
Director of Services for Environment, Climate Action, Active Travel and Sport, David Storey said: “Bike theft is more than just an inconvenience for teenagers it can mean a real loss of independence and a setback in building long term sustainable travel habits.
“With Second Spin, we want to make sure that one negative experience doesn’t stop young people from cycling”
As part of the project, data will also be gathered on where bike theft is most common, providing valuable insights into patterns and hotspots across Fingal.
This information can help identify areas where improvements to bike parking facilities might reduce theft. It will also allow the council to collaborate with schools, community groups, and Gardaí to raise awareness about bike security.
Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly said: “By renewing bikes through the circular economy, we’re not only supporting active travel but also reducing waste and promoting climate action. This is about giving teenagers their freedom back while helping to build a more sustainable future for everyone.”
Applying for the scheme is easy; if you are the teenage victim of bike theft, fill out an application form so that the council can help keep you cycling: https://forms.office.com/e/iX3z0TgTB0