News / cycling
New bike storage at Temple Meads branded ‘sexist infrastructure’
Anybody whose bike is still locked to the stands inside Bristol Temple Meads has until Sunday to remove it.
The stands next to platforms four and seven are closing both due to renovations and station security, according to Network Rail. Any bikes left on the platforms will be moved to a secure location on Sunday and can be collected until November 6.
Replacement cycle racks being installed outside the station on Friary have already come in for criticism from a city council cabinet member for transport.
is needed now More than ever
Cyclepods, calls the Double Brighton design “a stylish and versatile two tier shelter” – photo by Martin Booth
A two-tier system will be able to store 450 bikes in an area that has a roof, is lit and covered by CCTV.
Its manufacturer, Cyclepods, calls the Double Brighton design “a stylish and versatile two tier shelter”.
Within the shelters is Cyclepods’ Easylift Premium: “a highly convenient gas-assisted two level bicycle parking system” whose manufacturers promise that the lifting system ensures a bicycle can be parked on the top level “effortlessly”.
Former cabinet member Mhairi Threlfall tweeted Network Rail on Thursday calling the new cycle storage on Friary a “nonsense” and “sexist infrastructure”.
She said: “Dear @networkrail why on earth have you opted for these? My bike has very high handle bars so will not fit, I reckon this will be similar for many women let alone the pure weight of my bike means I can never use the top slider, the curved roof is a nonsense. #sexistinfrastructure”
Work to fully refurbish the Victorian roof at Temple Meads is due to start in December with a huge scaffolding structure set up inside the station and a false ceiling installed as a safety screen to allow the work to take place above.
The first major refurbishment of the station for more than 25 years is due for completion in 2023.
Bikes remaining locked to the stands inside Temple Meads will be removed on Sunday – photo by Martin Booth
Sheffield stands have already been installed on Station Approach – photo by Martin Booth
Main photo by Martin Booth
Read more: WECA announces £13m investment for cycling and walking
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