Canberra's next generation of cyclists is set to benefit from two new learn-to-ride centres aimed at helping parents, schools and community groups train children to ride a bike safely.
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The ACT government has revealed concept designs for the new centres planned for Greenway Park in Tuggeranong and Lake Ginninderra in Belconnen to provide a safe place for youngsters to practise their riding skills.
Road Safety Minister Shane Rattenbury said the new facilities would mirror real road conditions and have the look and feel of a real suburban road system.
"The ACT has a strong cycling culture, and it is important that children learn the fundamentals of safe riding in an environment that, as far as possible, mirrors real riding conditions," Mr Rattenbury said.
Mr Rattenbury said the designs featured footpaths, roundabouts, pedestrian crossings, line markings and road signs and had been modelled on popular learn-to-ride facilities in Deakin and Belconnen that had since closed.
The mock road system set-ups would also feature road signs to provide training and road safety tips and reminders for children.
"The centres are intended for children from preschool to Year 4 and will provide a non-threatening and fun environment where kids can learn all the basics from how to safely cross the road through to independent and confident riding," Mr Rattenbury said.
The Tuggeranong site is adjacent to Mortimer Lewis Drive, near the Indigenous Gathering Space and Indigenous artworks, while the Lake Ginninderra site is behind the swimming area and in front of the car park off MacDermott Place.
"These sites were selected because they are close to existing car parks and recreation facilities. They also have the added bonus of some nice views across the lakes," Mr Rattenbury said.
While Mr Rattenbury acknowledged some parents felt nervous about letting their children walk or ride to school, he said riding a bike had multiple benefits.
"Riding is a fun way to get to school, while helping keep our kids fit and healthy and reducing the number of cars that cause traffic congestion around drop-off and pick-up at school.
"It's also a great way to spend time with friends.
"I hope families and schools will take advantage of these facilities to teach their kids about road safety and practical riding skills, before transitioning to independent riding and walking to school."
Construction is set to start in September and the two centres are planned to open in March next year.
They are the latest government initiative designed to encourage ACT children to be active and get outdoors, while supporting families to find safe, easy and accessible ways to get to school.
The ACT government set aside $2 million in this year's budget to make it easier and safer for kids to walk or ride to school.
Under that funding, Canberra's Active Streets for Schools and Ride or Walk to School programs will be expanded, a dedicated Schools Transport Co-ordinator will be introduced and an Active Travel Officer will be included in the new Transport Canberra agency.
