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First Public Community eBike Library In Midlands Launches

Friday, 22 May 2026 08:31

It aims to reduce emissions and increase activity.

First Public Community eBike Library in the Midlands launches in Portarlington

The first public community eBike Library in the Midlands has been launched in Portarlington at the newly renovated Market House. This pilot project was spearheaded by Portarlington Community Development Association (PCDA) with the support of Laois County Council’s Climate Action team and funded by the Department of Climate, Energy and Environment

The Cathaoirleach for the Portarlington-Graiguecullen Municipal District, Cllr. Vivienne Phelan addressed those present at the launch. She said:

“I am delighted to be associated with this initiative which will help change people’s mindsets on daily travel habits with the aim of reducing emissions, increasing activity and creating stronger community connections.”

Cllr Phelan referenced the similarities to a book library in that members of the community can borrow the variety of bikes that are on offer stating that she had no doubt that this eBike library will inspire many people to make small changes that together will have a lasting impact. 

She referred to the “ambassadors” that collected their bikes today wishing them well over the three-month trial.

Chairperson of the PCDA Aidan Mullally welcomed everyone and referred to the ‘40’s when electrification transformed rural Ireland bringing opportunities, jobs and major lifestyle changes.  He compared the transformation to today’s opportunity with ebikes suggesting they could similarly reshape how people live and travel.  Mr. Mullally said:

“This represents a real milestone, not only for Portarlington, but for County Laois as a whole, as the first public community eBike library of its kind outside Dublin. I am delighted with the interest shown to borrow the bikes and the support that it will give the entire community for leisure, recreation, short journeys, business trips, and the exercise & fitness value.

When bikes are shared across families, schools, and clubs, the impact grows. A child cycling to school or a coach biking to training can shift how a community sees transport - it fosters and creates a cycling environment. And when these habits stick, they shape future generations, especially if the cycling infrastructure is provided.”

Users can express their interest at this website www.portarlington.ie/bike-library/. A bike can be taken out on loan for a period of 3 months once a refundable deposit of €150 is made by the participant. On completion of the 3-month loan period, the bike is returned for the next user and the €150 deposit is returned to the participant.  There are 9 different electric bikes in total – 4 electric bikes (different sizes), 2 electric folding bikes, 2 longtail cargo and 1 box cargo bike.

Senior Executive Officer, Georgina Ireland, spoke on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer of Laois County Council.   She said:

“We are delighted to be associated with this project which was fully funded under the Community Climate Action Programme from the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment.  This project is about giving people options - making it easier for families, commuters, students, and local clubs to choose a cleaner, healthier way to travel.”

Ms. Ireland thanked the Portarlington Community Development Association for bringing this project to fruition with the support of the Climate Action Team.  She also recognised the professionalism of the eBike suppliers, Bleeper, demonstrating good quality and a great variety of eBikes and for their ongoing maintenance support for the next year.  She concluded that the project was a great example of what can be achieved when national support, local government, and community leadership come together.   

Representatives from Bleeper then provided a demonstration on the use of the bikes and safety measures.  

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