Hopes raised for improved cycling facilities in Norwich (East of England Liberal Democrats)

East of England Liberal Democrats <info@eastlibdems.org.uk>

Hopes raised for improved cycling facilities in Norwich

February 1, 2012 3:09 PM
Originally published by Norwich Liberal Democrats Online

Hopes were raised last night that cycling facilities in Norwich could be improved with the provision of new cycle parking and a bicycle hire scheme.

Liberal Democrats have said that the awarding of the East Anglian rail franchise to the Dutch company Abellio provides an opportunity to drive forward improvements in Norwich. The Lib Dem Group has called for a range of measures, including secure parking at Norwich Station and a cycle hire scheme across the City. Last night, in response to a Lib Dem question, City Hall said that Abellio had indicated that their short-term priorities include significant improvements to the provision being made for cyclists at rail stations, which could include cycle hire and secure cycle storage facilities at Norwich Station.

Cllr Judith Lubbock, who asked the question at last night's Full City Council meeting, commented:

"The possible provision of secure cycle parking and a cycle hire scheme is excellent news for Norwich. As a City we already have higher numbers of cyclists compared to other cities. I am sure that new facilities would encourage even more people to cycle.

"I have long been an advocate for a cycle hire scheme and hope that if Abellio could provide facilities at the railway station then other locations, such as the UEA, the Bus Station or City College could add to the scheme in the future. These schemes have worked in other towns and cities across Europe.

"Abellio has an excellent record of providing cycling facilities at their stations; the award winning 'Cycle Point' at Leeds Station is a good example of this. It provides secure cycle storage in a staffed facility, cycle hire and repair, information on local cycling routes, and sells cycling accessories."