Dick's Bikes in Ballycommon leads the way in accessible tourism
A new fleet of accessible bikes at Dick’s Bikes in Ballycommon is set to transform how people of all ages and abilities experience the Grand Canal. This marks another successful investment under Fáilte Ireland’s Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme, which is co-funded by the EU and the Government of Ireland under the EU Just Transition fund.
The official launch showcased a range of specially designed bikes, enabling people with mobility challenges, disabilities and those requiring additional support to enjoy cycling along one of Offaly’s most scenic canal routes.
The project represents a significant investment with €148,000 funding support received through the EU Just Transition Fund. This support has enabled Dick’s Bikes to expand its offering and ensure a more accessible visitor experience in Ballycommon.
Richard Ridge, owner of Dick’s Bikes, said the project was driven by a desire to make cycling accessible to everyone: “We realised we couldn’t cater for everyone and today is about changing that.” He added: “It’s about opening up the Grand Canal so people of all ages and abilities can enjoy it.”
The initiative highlights the wider impact of the EU Just Transition Tourism Fund, which is supporting tourism businesses across Offaly and the Midlands to innovate, diversify and become more sustainable and inclusive, while strengthening the region’s visitor offering.
Deputy John Clendennen praised the project as a model for future development. “This is what Just Transition is all about, inclusion and innovation. This project ensures no one is left behind.”
The launch also reflects the growing strength of Ballycommon as a destination, with strong collaboration between local businesses and Offaly County Council enhancing the visitor experience along the Grand Canal corridor.
"This project is an excellent example of how targeted investment through the EU Just Transition Fund can deliver real benefits for our communities,” said Andrew Murray, Director of Services, “By improving accessibility along the Grand Canal, Dick’s Bikes is helping to ensure that everyone can enjoy Offaly’s natural assets, while also strengthening the local tourism economy in a sustainable and accessible way."
Mary Hensey, EU Just Transition Tourism Activator, who has been working closely with businesses across the county, to bring forward projects that deliver real impact for their communities, also supported Dick’s Bikes throughout the application and project delivery process.
Speaking about the initiative, she highlighted the importance of supporting projects that combine accessibility, sustainability and local economic development, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared across the region, supporting local businesses, enriching communities, and creating quality experiences for all.
The addition of accessible bikes at Ballycommon is expected to further enhance Offaly’s reputation as an inclusive and welcoming destination, encouraging more visitors to explore the Grand Canal and surrounding area.