After a trial of secure on-street bicycle parking in north London, Islington Council is set to roll it out across the borough.
Known as Bikehangars, the covered and lockable units take up a single car parking space in the road; each one provides rental space for up to six bicycles. Two Bikehangars were installed last year in Crayford Road, Holloway, and Hanley Road in Tollington ward as part of a test.
A waiting list has more than 600 residents who have requested a space in a unit, as a safe way of protecting bikes from the weather and theft, where storage space is at a premium.
Islington councillor Claudia Webbe, executive member for environment and transport, said: “Bikehangars are a great solution for residents who want to make the most of the health and financial advantages of cycling but simply don’t have the space to store a bike at home. I was delighted to see how well they were received during the trial and hope that we can secure more external funding to roll out Bikehangars to any residents who want them.
“They not only provide peace of mind but should encourage more people to take up cycling, which is healthier and better for the environment.”
Pictured is Claudia Webbe at the unit in Crayford Road, in N7.
So far the council has secured external funding for 18 Asgard hangars, meaning a total of 120 bicycles can be kept secure and protected from the weather in lockable on-street units. The borough has more than 600 spaces on public bike stands, and the numerous spaces and shelters on the borough’s council estates.
Residents have been consulted on proposed locations for these units, and more will be rolled out borough-wide, subject to winning further funding and local consultation.
The council is developing an application and payment system for residents on its website; until then residents can email [email protected] to show interest.
