Launching UK rail network’s first green cycle hire initiative
Londoners were today (11 February 2009) urged to get on their bikes as we launched the UK rail network’s first green cycle hire initiative.
We have joined forces with Brompton Bicycle in a bid to encourage passengers to cycle as part of a fully integrated low carbon journey combining bike and train.
We invited some of our Season Ticket holders to take part in a free three-month trial of the scheme, which will use Brompton’s iconic folding bikes.
CTC – the UK’s national cyclists’ organisation – has given the thumbs up to the scheme, which follows extensive research by our parent company, Stagecoach Group who has identified growing consumer support for healthier and greener lifestyles.
The number of people cycling on London’s major roads has nearly doubled since 2000 and Transport for London (TfL) is targeting a 5% mode share for cycling by 2025.
Stagecoach Group Chief Executive Brian Souter today launched the new initiative at London Waterloo station along with Will Butler-Adams, Managing Director of Brompton Bicycle, passengers taking part in the trial and Dave Holladay of CTC.
Cycle hire schemes are popular elsewhere in Europe, with initiatives launched in major cities such as Paris, Brussels, Barcelona and Berlin.
The idea for the South West Trains scheme followed research involving 13,000 people across the UK, including consumers in the South West Trail rail franchise area, focusing on public attitudes to green issues.
Health emerged as a significant factor in convincing people to ditch the car and switch to public transport. With growing interest in cycling, the bike hire initiative is designed to make it easier for travellers to make a greener, integrated journey.
Brian Souter said: “Our extensive consumer research around the UK has found that environmental concerns are growing. People are looking for travel choices that will help reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
“Cycling is growing in popularity and many people are now looking to get on their bikes as part of an integrated trip that also involves using trains or buses. We hope this innovative initiative will make it easier for people to take the greener smarter travel option, stay healthy and help save the planet.”
Passengers will be able to hire the South West Trains’ branded Brompton bicycles from our Lost Property Office at Waterloo station.
Mr Butler-Adams said: “Integrating a folding bicycle into established transport makes sense. It gives the customer increased journey time certainty, with no traffic jams or delays, and it is the quickest mode of transport over short urban trips.
“Any user will get fitter, healthier and have more energy when they get to work. They will know they are helping to reduce global warming and, above all else, will have fun!”
Dave Holladay, CTC’s Public Transport Adviser, added: “It’s quicker and cheaper to combine cycling with commuting by train.
“Cycling delivers a reliable and consistent connection and you can cycle to most destinations in Central London within around 15 minutes of your train arriving at Waterloo. It also saves you money as you no longer have the costs of fuel, car parking or a zone 1 Travelcard.”
On Your Bike is carrying out some of the logistics and maintenance of the scheme.
Founder and MD of On Your Bike Robert Chappell said:
“This is an innovative scheme that brings about a fully integrated transport system combining cycling and rail travel. It is a further expansion of OYB’s cycle maintenance and repair services from our London Bridge state-of-the-art workshop.
“We are delighted to be part of this scheme and look forward to On Your Bike’s involvement in assisting that the cycles will be maintained to the highest standards.”