About us

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to empower individuals from all walks of life to embrace the joy of two wheels.

The Chichester Bike Project is built on bike donations from the generous people of Chichester, which are then repaired by our workshop attendees and volunteers and rehomed within our community. We aim to help people from all areas of the Chichester District to get out on two wheels and for it to be an inclusive and empowering experience for them.

We offer invaluable support through our community and volunteer-led workshops working with young people and adults from all backgrounds to build confidence, develop life skills and provide work experience.

The project will:

Provide voluntary and paid employment opportunities
Offer access to learning and skills in the local community with a chance to gain accredited qualifications in cycle mechanics, creating opportunities to enhance employability.
Offer young, un-employed and low-income participants access to free donated bicycles as a means of sustainable transport.
Encourage a hands-on approach to cycle ownership by giving basic maintenance knowledge to participants through the guidance of our skilled volunteers.
Encourage skill-sharing and independence, where new skills are learned in a way that is empowering for all.
Economically repair donated bikes and offer them for sale to the community at reasonable prices to fund the project.
Encourage cycling as a lifestyle activity and a sustainable means of transport in the community and surrounding area encouraging healthy lifestyles.
Empower people within our community by providing access to a sustainable transport option.

OUR JOURNEY

After extensive community consultation, Chichester Community Development Trust found that cycle use nationally is showing a steep increase. We observed that for those of limited means or on low incomes, there is limited availability, of low-priced, second-hand bikes, that are in sound condition, or good quality, and have been safely checked. There is also a national shortage of qualified cycle mechanics.

Cycling can enable exploration beyond an individual’s immediate neighbourhood by providing a means of independent transport giving the freedom to travel locally and beyond – to college, and work. It also cuts across social boundaries, enabling people to meet others with like-minded interests that otherwise would not be realised.

Having worked with a number of bike projects, similar social businesses and schemes across the country, CCDT identified that there could be an opportunity to deliver the project in dedicated premises with the provision of the Chichester Bike Project, which has the potential to increase recycling of bikes locally, and to develop city-wide objectives and community development opportunities.

Following this consultation and research, Chichester CDT embarked on this exciting venture at our Shopwhyke community facility. With a dedicated team of eager volunteers, boundless enthusiasm, and a helping hand from Sport England, the Chichester Bike Project has become a reality.

OUR TEAM

James, the Workshop Manager, has always had a deep connection with bikes. They first gave him the freedom to explore as a child, later becoming a creative outlet and a beloved hobby. He is passionate about sharing the joy that cycling has brought to his life and is eager to contribute to the community through his work.

James Holcombe

Bike Workshop Project Manager

Clare de Bathe is an experienced third sector leader with experience in community engagement strategies. With prior experience in promoting community businesses and advocating for sustainable transportation initiatives, Clare is adept at connecting with diverse audiences and mobilising support for the bike project. Her creative vision, strong interpersonal skills, and commitment to promoting cycling as a lifestyle choice make her an asset to the team.

Clare de Bathe

Founding Director the Chichester Bike project and CEO CCDT

Liz brings extensive experience in project management and operations within the hospitality, retail and commercial industry. With a background in management and a passion for promoting community initiatives, Liz is well-equipped to oversee the day-to-day operations of the bike project. Her strong leadership skills, attention to detail, and strategic mindset ensure efficient and effective execution of organisational goals.

Liz Woodsell

Founding Director the Chichester Bike project and Operations Director CCDT

David is a lifelong cyclist with a passion for cycling and years of experience in business and political committees. He wishes to share his enthusiasm by sharing the plentiful benefits of cycling for transport, leisure, or mindfulness with others. His career has been in optics - opening, building and ultimately selling 2 optician’s practices in the local area.

David Bridle

Chair

Dorothy has always been passionate about all kinds of outdoor activities. She recently accomplished her bucket list goal of cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats by e-bike. She has experience in public and charity sectors and will be putting this knowledge to good use by contributing as the Secretary of the Chichester Bike Project.

Dorothy Cox

Secretary

Tony is a lifelong cyclist, using his bike on a day-to-day basis. He became a shareholder of Chichester Bike Project to contribute to the shared vision that inspired him. With years of experience as a professional transport planner focussing on the promotion of safe cycle routes and a background in business development.

Tony Cross

Business Development

Benjamin has joined the Chichester Bike Project to benefit our local community. He believes the passion shown by the wonderful people who started this journey shows the true positive influence this project will have. Benjamin also sees the Chichester Bike Project as an opportunity to combine local community spirit with real world skills through positive social growth.

Benjamin Moores

Operations Director

JOIN OUR TEAM OF DIRECTORS!

We are looking to recruit a team of board members at our first Annual General Meeting (AGM). The AGM will be held at The Chichester Bike Project. As a community-owned asset, our board should represent the full diversity of the area and to be representative of the Cycling community and wider community stakeholders. There are 10 roles on the board that are essential for making this a success. We are hoping that you may have the time, skills, and experience to put your name forward.