Good quality cycle parking reduces the likelihood of bikes being stolen or damaged. The good news is that several schemes supply free cycle parking for businesses, shops, offices, cafés, pubs, churches and other organisations in selected areas across the UK.
ParkThatBike
The bike stands are free of charge from ParkThatBike, but you are responsible for installing them on your own property.
This initiative is supported by various local councils across the UK. At the time of writing:
- Blackpool
- County Durham
- Gateshead
- Newcastle
- South Essex (Basildon, Castle Point, Rochford)
- South Tyneside
- Southend-on-Sea
- Thurrock
- West Midlands (Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton)
- Worcestershire
Apply for your free bike parking at ParkThatBike.
Life Cycle UK
“Life Cycle UK works with Local Authorities to provide access to free high-quality cycle stands, particularly targeting small organisations who otherwise can’t afford cycle parking. We supply and deliver stands free of charge, the recipient must simply install them within 3 months at an accessible location off the public highway.”
Again, the scheme only applies in certain areas. At the time of writing:
- Bath & North East Somerset (BathNES)
- Bristol
- Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP)
- Herefordshire
- Somerset
- Swindon
- North Wiltshire
Apply at Life Cycle UK.
Live somewhere that isn’t listed?
There may be other schemes too – why not search on your local council website, or contact them to find out?
It’s also worth approaching your local councillor, as there may be grants available for schemes that benefit the local community, of which bike parking is an excellent example.
Know of other free bike parking initiatives? Let us know.