St Peters Cycle Hub has begun an exciting new chapter as it rebrands to Wear Wheels, marking a major milestone in its work to champion cycling, sustainability and community wellbeing across Sunderland.
Operated by the Sunderland Community Action Group, the organisation has secured three years of funding from The Rank Foundation, enabling its move to a new dedicated workshop at Leechmere Industrial Estate. This new base will support Wear Wheels in expanding its services and outreach, offering a central hub for repairs, community engagement, and cycling education.
In addition, Sunderland City Council has provided Capability funding to support a range of inclusive cycling initiatives. These include Dr Bike sessions, a Donate Your Bike scheme, and Led Cycle Rides all designed to encourage more people to get active and explore their city on two wheels. This will build on the success of the earlier Wear Moving initiative.
Wear Moving advanced sustainable transport, promoted physical activity, and fostered community spirit through cycling and cycles recycling. By collecting, refurbishing, and redistributing pre-owned bicycles, the initiative helped reduce environmental waste, supported circular economy principles, and provided affordable transport solutions to residents who might otherwise face barriers to cycling.
Through Wear Moving, the team developed expertise in sustainable recycling and community-led cycling initiatives, including led rides and cycles donation schemes. This foundation has enabled the launch of Wear Wheels, which will now expand its reach by offering a wider range of cycles care and repair workshops across the city.
Councillor Lindsey Leonard, Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Net Zero at Sunderland City Council said:
“Wear Wheels is a fantastic example of how community-led initiatives can make cycling more accessible and inclusive for everyone. We’re proud to support their work through Capability funding, helping residents across Sunderland discover the benefits of active travel, improve their wellbeing, and connect with others. This new workshop and rebrand mark an exciting step forward.”
Wear Wheels staff member hard at work
The project is run by Sunderland Community Action Group who have recently occupied one of the Pods at Roker.
Richy Duggan, project manager at Sunderland Community Action Group said:
“This is a fantastic opportunity for us to build on our prior success, together we are building a cycle of growth, where every recycled bike brings opportunity, success and a stronger community connection.”
The project is also supported by Sunderland Community Action Group’s recent set-up in one of the Pods at Roker, further strengthening its community ties and visibility.
The rebrand and new funding reflect Wear Wheels’ commitment to making cycling more sustainable, enjoyable, and accessible. Through its expanded services and community programmes, the organisation aims to inspire more residents to embrace cycling for health, leisure, and everyday travel.
Further details about upcoming events and opportunities will be shared in the coming weeks.
