An on-demand cycle parking scheme has launched in Leeds, with the aim of helping cyclists keep their bikes secure when travelling around the city.
Designed, developed, and delivered by Hooplr, in partnership with Leeds City Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the service has been made possible thanks to funding secured through the City Regional Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS).
The secure, weather-proof units will be available from today, with nine standard cycle hangars and one cargo-bike hangar installed across the city centre. Each hangar can accommodate up to six bikes, while the cargo-bike hangar provides space for two cargo bikes or adapted cycles. Both types of hangar meet the highest security accreditation currently available (Sold Secure Powered Cycle Diamond), and are equipped with a secure ground anchor locking point to accommodate a range of cycle frame types.
Customers can manage their bookings, lock and unlock the hangars, add credit and find vacant parking spaces, all through the Hooplr smartphone app.
Councillor Peter Carlill, Leeds City Council’s executive member for transport and planning, said:
“Leeds has become one of the leading cities in the UK for providing safe cycle lanes, with over 300km across the district. However, a key barrier to cycling remains the lack of secure cycle parking. This scheme provides a safe and accessible way for residents to securely park their bikes in the city centre.”
“Schemes like this support our transport strategy by encouraging more sustainable travel and helping to reduce congestion in the city centre.”
Anthony Lau, Founder and Design Director at Cyclehoop, added:
“The launch of secure destination cycle parking in Leeds will give both residents and visitors greater confidence to travel by bike and make full use of the city’s growing cycle network. By investing in practical, secure parking at key destinations, Leeds City Council is making cycling a more convenient and attractive option for everyday journeys. This scheme helps remove a major barrier to cycling, giving people peace of mind that their bike will be safe while they work, shop or spend time in the city centre.”
(Picture: Leeds City Council)
