Plans have been revealed for a new, purpose-built Cycle Hub at Chatham Railway Station as part of efforts to improve sustainable movement to and from the station. The Department for Transport (DfT) has set aside a £800,000 grant to fund the new £1.1 million Cycle Hub, which is expected to provide 280 cycle spaces and electric charging points for hybrid bikes. It will also feature 2 tool stands and 2 pumps for cyclists to use. The new 600-space Cycle Hub at Reading Station - © Reading Council The new Cycle Hub is part of the government's wider Cycle Rail Programme across the country - backed by £36 million with a further £1.6 million announced in January - allowing commuters to make their daily journeys to work as connected and sustainable as possible.
The programme has already improved access to UK's railway stations for cyclists through a number of initiatives, including cycle hire schemes, extended footpaths and safer cycle parking facilities - tripling the number of cycle parking spaces at over 500 stations, bringing the total to at least 80,000. Speaking to Intelligent Transport, Cycling and Walking Minister, Jesse Norman, said: “Improving cycling access to railway stations is good for cyclists and good for rail users, whether they’re commuters or tourists – and it has terrific knock-on benefits, improving air quality, reducing obesity and increasing economic productivity." The announcement of the new £1.1 million Cycle Hub planned for Chatham Railway Station comes just weeks before the completion of the station's £1.4 million upgrade, which includes resurfaced pavements and a remodelled station forecourt to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment and a better first impression for commuters visiting Chatham. Chatham Railway Station is also set to benefit from further accessibility improvements as part of the Department for Transport's 'Access for All' programme. Although currently in the design stage, it is expected that lifts will be installed to improve access for disabled and less mobile users of the station. These works are expected to be completed by March 2024. Comments are closed.
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