In an effort to get more people cycling, Southeastern has opened new secure cycle hubs at some of its railway stations in Kent in which to store bicycles.
The new cycle hubs have been opened at Birchington-on-Sea, Folkestone Central, Dover Priory, Marden, Walmer, and Westgate-on-Sea.
They ensure customers' cycles are kept safe as they all require a secure key-fob to gain entry to facilities.
An added attraction is that except at Folkestone Central and Dover, a 3-month subscription for using the hubs is just £5.
For added security, besides their key-fob entry system, each has CCTV. In addition, they all have charging points for electric bikes as well as cycle pumps and repair stands.
Southeastern is taking steps to making its railway stations more accessible, and one of its key aims is to make it more affordable for passengers who cycle to its stations.
An added attraction there is now a lower price structure for customers who want to store their bikes at the new hubs. For example, at Walmer, a 12-month subscription costs just £15, against the £50 which is the charge at existing hubs, although these prices are soon to be reduced. The cost for a six-month subscription is £8 and just £5 for three months.
Southeastern's General Manager South, Mark Borny, said: “As an all-electric train operator we truly believe in greener travel. We want people to leave their cars behind and give cycling to our stations a go. It's much healthier and helps to reduce harmful emissions.
“We already have 21 secure cycle hubs across our network and opening six new hubs this summer really underlines our commitment to active travel.
“We've also brought down our prices as we know people are feeling the pinch.”
Kent County Council's Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, Neil Baker, said: “We know that having a safe and secure area to store your bicycle has immense benefits, giving that extra peace of mind and making public transport more attractive.
“By providing part of the funding to install these facilities, we are furthering our ambition to encourage people to make more sustainable choices when considering how they move around our county and beyond.”
David Hibbs, Cycle Rail Programme Manager at Sustrans which manages the Cycle Rail Grant Programme said: “Combining cycling and rail is a great way to make your journey more sustainable and healthier. The new cycle hubs, jointly funded by the Government's Cycle Rail Programme, provide value for money and make cycling to and from the station an even more attractive option.”
