Train operator GWR has opened a new bicycle hub at Didcot Parkway station capable of housing 600 bikes.
The £1million facility funded by the rail industry (GWR, the Department for Transport and Network Rail) increases parking for bikes at the station from 182 to 600, significantly improving access once travel restrictions are eased.
The cycle hub is fitted with CCTV for added security; environmentally friendly motion sensor LED lighting and a bike repair stand.
GWR Didcot Station Manager Kim Higgs said:
“We know that more people are now walking and cycling and this is likely to continue in future, and as more people have the confidence to return to rail travel it is important that we provide the facilities they need at the station.
“We are delighted to have worked with our industry partners to get the new cycle storage in place. Didcot is an important station on our network and it is great to see investment being made here to support sustainable transport by bike and by train.”
It is hoped that the new facility will allow even more people to choose a sustainable way of getting to and from the station, reducing road traffic congestion in the area, and improving access to the full benefits that the railway has to offer.
Sustrans Head of Delivery, England South, Sarah Leeming said:
“It’s brilliant to see this investment in cycle parking at the station. Being able to store so many more bikes will mean more people will be able to get to and from the train station without having to pick up the car keys. And it’ll help all those people who started cycling in lockdown to keep it going when the country gets moving again.
“Changing these short car journeys to bike rides will make all the difference as we seek to tackle the climate emergency.”
The new cycle hub at Didcot Parkway is located in the West Car Park opposite the taxi rank. It has a capacity for 600 bikes within two-tier racks. It will be open Monday to Friday from 0530 to 0030 and on Saturday/Sunday from 0715 to 2315.
With the Government’s present advice restricting travel, GWR is operating a reduced timetable. Customers should follow Government guidelines, people should continue to work from home where they can and minimise the number of journeys they make where possible, avoiding travel at the busiest times. Find out more at gwr.com/safety.
The train operator has been providing rail services throughout the pandemic and has worked to ensure these are as safe as possible. This includes increased cleaning regimes and the use of a virucidal spray; extra staff at key stations to offer help and guidance; and processes in place to help customers maintain a safe distance where possible, such as restricting the number of reservations available.
Photo credit: GWR
