Network Rail and Cycling UK have launched a partnership as figures reveal that a fifth of Brits say they would consider cycling to work.
A new YouGov study, commissioned by Network Rail, has revealed that 20% of people are now likely to consider cycling to work, with nearly 60% of commuters feeling confident about travelling back into their workplace.
Although people are keen to cycle all or part of their journey, the study has revealed a number of barriers putting people off.
49% said they were worried about cycling on busy roads (which increases to 55% for Londoners), while 22% are concerned their bike will get stolen or damaged and 15% are concerned about insufficient bike storage at or near their place of work.
To address these concerns and support the growing numbers of cyclists in the UK, Network Rail has partnered with charity Cycling UK on a new initiative to help novice cyclists taking to the roads in towns and cities.
Together, they will be offering cyclists practical tips on where they can park their bikes at stations, information on safer cycling routes on quieter roads, as well as access to an interactive journey planner to help plot a cycle-friendly route from each station, in a bid to encourage sustainable, healthy travel.
David Biggs, Managing Director, Network Rail Property, said: “With more people taking up cycling and considering using it as part of their journey back to the workplace, we wanted to let them know that our stations offer lots of convenient storage space for them to leave their bikes.
You may also be interested in:
“We’re working with Cycling UK to help promote sustainable, healthy travel, by offering useful and practical advice to new cyclists and help overcome some of the common barriers to cycling.”
There are currently 5,000 secure bike storage spaces at Network Rail’s 20 managed stations, including at London Waterloo, Birmingham New Street and Manchester Piccadilly, offering convenient places for people to park their bikes before heading onto their next destination.
Network Rail has also introduced a range of measures – including enhanced cleaning regimes and increased station staff – to help keep passengers safe from the virus while travelling by rail.
Passengers should continue to follow public health guidance – wear a covering if you are not exempt, travel at quieter times and maintain a distance from others wherever possible. Those who do not wear a face covering and are not exempt risk a £100 fine.
Advert
