See
eveningnews24.co.ukstory.aspOpen ↗
ime=16+Apr+2004 +11%3A47&tbrand=ENOnline&tCategory=NEWS&cat-
egory=News&brand=ENOnline&itemi
d=NOED16+Apr+2004+11%3A48%3A38%3A173
or
"Cycle idea to be pedalled out across UK
April 16, 2004 11:47
PIONEERING measures to make it easier for cyclists to use
trains look likely to be rolled out across the country after
they were tested in Norfolk.
Special modified train carriages, bike lockers and Sheffield
stands — metal bars cemented into the ground to lock bikes
to — have already been tested at stations in Norfolk.
Now the Strategic Rail Authority is aiming to encourage more
bike users to get on the train.
The Anglia Railways network, which was recently taken over
by National Express and is now called One, has always been
ahead of the chasing pack on the issue.
In 1997, Anglia was awarded with a Cycle Mark by transport
minister Glenda Jackson — and was the first company in the
country to receive such an accolade.
The company won the award for new Continental-style bike
racks on some of its trains, as well as improved cycle
access and parking and storage facilities at stations. It
was awarded the mark for the following two years as well.
In 1998, Norwich cyclists welcomed a pioneering £200,000
scheme to increase the number of bike space on trains from
one (during off peak hours) to four at any time.
The company has also worked in partnership with communities
near the Bittern Line to arrange cycle hire schemes so
visitors can rent bikes on trips along the scenic line.
Today Peter Meades, spokesman for One, said: "Anglia
Railways modified all its local trains a few years ago and
put dedicated cycle storage areas for up to four cycles. All
the stations in the area have either secure cycle lockers or
Sheffield stands.
"A lot of what has happened in East Anglia in the last few
years, which we have seen to be beneficial, looks set to
roll out to the rest of the country.
"We welcome the proposals. Anglia Railways' policy will be
retained by One and where possible built upon."
Adrian Ramsay, a Green Party city councillor who cycles
everywhere, welcomed the move. He said: "I am totally in
favour of any measures which make it easier for cyclists to
use the trains and for different forms of transport to be
integrated."
The SRA aims to encourage more people to cycle to stations,
get train companies to invest in cycle facilities, get more
parking at stations and ensure information on facilities is
available.
SRA managing director of strategic planning Jim Steer said:
"The SRA is committed to encouraging cycling in conjunction
with travel by rail. Our policy is designed to ensure that
the rail industry plays a key role in promoting cycle use
within an integrated travel system."
The authority is current consulting on its proposals."
Cheers, helen s
--This is an invalid email address to avoid spam-- to get
correct one remove fame & fortune
h*$el*$$e*nd**$o$ts**i*$*$m*m$o*n*s@$*a$o*l.c**$om$
--Due to financial crisis the light at the end of the tunnel
is switched off--