Council's plans for 'hub' to boost cycling in York a step closer

Plans for a new cycling hub in York should take a huge step forward this week as transport officials at City of York Council say tenders for the hub, which will include secure cycle parking and cycle station are due any day now.

An old sub-station below Lendal Bridge in the city centre is to be converted into a secure bike-parking unit and cycle station as part of the city’s multi-million-pound improvements under the Cycling England banner, and the cycle station will also offer bike repairs and workshops to train people in repairing bikes.

A  council spokeswomen said: “There have been some design issues to resolve as this is a listed building. However, tenders for the scheme are due in the next few days. Following this, a report will be taken to the Executive on September 22, detailing progress on the project.”

Local Conservative leader Ian Gillies has called for the bike-stands in Parliament Street to be removed once the hub is up and running.

In other cycling news for York, this weekend sees the city hold its first ever Festival of Cycling, an initiative which is part of Cycling City York, and the free two day event is at Rowntrees Park this Saturday and Sunday. There will be try out tracks and bike experiences for the whole family to enjoy, guided cycle rides with free cycle hire, a BMX competition and a packed schedule of cycling entertainment.

The festival is designed to be accessible to all and will include specially designed activities to cater for less able cyclists. York has recently been awarded Cycling City status which means £3.68m of government money is helping to fund further improvements to cycling facilities in the city and get more people cycling.