News / Transport
Demand for more bike hangars
Dozens more streets in Bristol could have new bike hangars installed in place of car parking spaces after requests from residents.
Following the official unveiling of the first hangar in Bedminster nine months ago, Travel West have revealed they have received 35 requests for the storage sheds – and are encouraging more people to sign up.
The bike hangars, designed by Cycle Hoop, take up the space of a small car and can take up to six bikes. They provide secure storage for bikes where individuals may not have the space to store bikes inside their homes.
is needed now More than ever
It is hoped that making bikes more accessible for residents will encourage more local people to cycle.
Bristol City Council is offering grants to install the hangars in local communities through the Local Sustainable Transport Fund (LSTF).
The LSTF provides funding for local transport authorities outside London to “build on their plans for sustainable travel measures that support economic growth and reduce carbon”.
The first bike hangar was installed nine months ago on Eldon Terrace and last week the community threw a street party to celebrate the anniversary of the initiative.
Helen, an Eldon Terrace resident, said: “We have no front gardens or garages on the street and I used to have to carry my bike up a steep flight of steps to my front door every day.”
Another resident, Kim, also praised the scheme. “My husband is cycling nearly every day now. He used to leave it to the last minute, and then have to jump in the car to go to work as we didn’t have enough space to easily access our bikes.
“We’ve also both discovered a lot more of the city now that we are using the bikes more often to get around.”
Bristol mayor George Ferguson said: “I am delighted to see local people enjoying and taking pride in their bike hangar. Ideas like this one are exactly what the Local Sustainable Transport Fund’s community grants are all about – simple but ingenious ideas which can make a big difference to local people in their day to day lives.
“I hope that others will be inspired by this involved group of residents and come up with ideas of their own about how they can help their community to travel in a more sustainable, healthy and enjoyable way.”
Since the first hangar was installed in Eldon Terrace in March many other communities have shown an interest in the initiative. Bristol City Council currently has 35 requests from across the city for the grants.
If you are interested in installing a hangar for your community you can submit your contact details at www.betterbybike.info/contact/.