Velocity, Inverness’s Bike Café and Workshop, Ceases Operations After 12 Years

The Inverness-based Velocity, a well-known café and bicycle workshop, has ceased operations following 12 years of service. This social enterprise was involved in various initiatives, such as providing cycle training for adults and organizing bike rides aimed at enhancing individuals’ health and wellbeing. A legal procedure has been initiated to liquidate the company and potentially dispose of its assets. Located in the city’s Crown area, the establishment first opened its doors in 2012. Stronachs LLP, a firm of solicitors, has commenced the winding-up proceedings for Velocity at Inverness Sheriff Court. Social enterprises are characterized as businesses operated with a primary social or environmental objective. The café operated by Velocity provided vegetarian and vegan food choices and was recognized as Scotland’s Cyclist Café of the Year in both 2018 and 2020. Its workshop allowed individuals to book services at an affordable rate for bike repairs, with the additional choice of having a mechanic supervise the work. In 2012, the enterprise implemented a program that facilitated organized group bike rides to and from the Belladrum Tartan Heart Music festival, situated close to Inverness. The Highland Cycle Campaign expressed profound sadness regarding Velocity’s closure. A spokesperson stated: “Velocity has done much to achieve its aim of Inverness becoming a cycling city. “The café has acted as a haven for local cyclists and an attraction for bike tourers. The projects have supported many people to become independent cyclists.” The spokesperson further commented: “The sense of community Velocity created for the cyclists of Inverness and beyond will be deeply missed. “We send our love to all the staff and everyone affected by the closing.” Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.