New cycle base set to open up in vacant unit

Businessman Matthew Williams, of Hednesford Road, Rugeley, wants to open Run & Ride Ltd, in a vacant unit at Chase View.

Mr Williams has told planning chiefs at Cannock Chase Council that the new venture will initially create eight new jobs. More than 1.5million people visit Cannock Chase every year, and many of which are cycling enthusiasts.

Mr Williams is already operating as an internet cycle and running retailer and event organiser.

He said: "These two areas will contribute around 70 per cent to the overall business of Run & Ride.

"Given the products we offer, bespoke bike builds, clothing; we have a number of customers that would like to to try before they buy.

"This is the reason why we have a need for general retail on the premises so customers can come along and look at the products directly.

"We've seen that there is a future possibility to grow the business for repairs and cycle hire from the unit, something we plan to introduce at a later date.

"We specialise in hard to find exclusive cycles, cycle accessories and cycle and running clothing."

Mr Williams said the new business is in a prime position for people using Cannock Chase, which has won awards for its network of cycle paths.

He said: "It's situated on the edge of Cannock Chase which is experiencing a boom in terms of the number of cyclists visiting the area.

"It's estimated that 300,000 people visit specifically the Forestry Centre each year and a further 300,000 either park elsewhere walk or cycle to the chase."

"The Forestry Commission also estimate that around half of these are cyclists meaning there could be around 300,000 cyclists visiting Cannock Chase every year," he added.

Mr Williams has applied to the council for a change of use of the vacant unit which has been been empty since June.