A community project that supports students, active travel, and a healthier city
London Bicycle Café is excited to share a new community project that aligns with our mission to help more people choose active transportation. Last spring, Andrew McClenaghan, a proud South Collegiate alumnus from the class of 1997 and an active transportation activist, began working with South staff, School Council, and the Thames Valley District School Board on a plan to build a secure bicycle and scooter storage cage at the school.
Students need a safe and reliable place to store their bikes and scooters. When this is in place, more students ride. The benefits are real. Safer storage reduces theft and damage, encourages daily physical activity, and helps cut down on traffic during busy drop off and pick up periods. With growing interest in active travel among students and families, the timing for this project is ideal.
What the project includes
The proposed secure storage cage would be built on the north side of the school beside the main offices.
The enclosure would feature an eight foot ornamental iron fence with controlled access. Inside, the plan includes six racks with room for forty eight bicycles and dedicated scooter parking.
These racks would be designed and sourced locally through London Wrought Iron Products, keeping the project rooted in the community and supporting local craftsmanship.
Andrew presented the proposal to the South Collegiate Alumni Association this fall. Support was strong and the groundwork is already well developed. Approval from the school board looks promising. The next major step is fundraising. The total project budget is about thirty thousand dollars, which means community contributions will play an important role in bringing the plan to life.
A model for other schools
A secure bike and scooter cage at South has the potential to be much more than a single school improvement. Our hope is that this project becomes a pilot for the entire Thames Valley District School Board. Every school would benefit from safer active transportation options. Purpose built parking encourages healthy habits, reduces morning congestion, and helps students feel confident choosing a sustainable way to travel. If this project succeeds, it could inspire a wider shift across the region toward greener school communities.
Why it matters
Andrew has remained closely connected to South over the years and was featured during the school’s 100th Anniversary celebrations in 2024. As an active transportation activist and owner of London Bicycle Café, he sees this project as a practical way to help young people build healthier habits and enjoy the independence that comes with riding to school. It also helps reduce congestion around the school and lowers emissions in the surrounding neighbourhood.
A call to the community
The Alumni Association and Bicycle Cafe plan to contribute but cannot cover the full cost on their own. They hope to inspire alumni and community members who care about student well-being and sustainable travel to support the project.
If you would like to learn more or get involved, please connect with the School or Andrew @ amcc@londonbicyclecafe.com This effort shows how a single well designed investment can transform daily travel for students and help build a more welcoming city for people who ride.