New Cycle Racks at Harpenden Train Station

Do you feel that the £57,000 scheme to improve facilities for parking bicycles, motorbikes and motor scooters is money well spent or could the money be better invested elsewhere?  There is obviously a need for provisions for cycles at the train station- during the building works cyclists had to find elsewhere to secure their bikes; there were bikes chained to all available railings extending as far as the pedestrian lights on Station Road.  But was the need great enough to warrant the £57,000 price tag?    

The scheme, managed by First Capital Connect in partnership with Herts County Council, is due to be completed today, the 2nd of April, and aims to replace the current cycle racks and shelters at Harpenden Train Station.   The old provision can accommodate 158 bicycles; the new area will have covered spaces for 260 and there will be the addition of two motorcycle rails to enable motorbikes and motorised scooters to be secured.  I am not disputing that the improvements were needed and I am heartened by the fact that so many commuters choose to cycle instead of getting in the car – but I still feel the amount of money is excessive.  Perhaps the improved facilities will encourage more commuters to get on their bikes and cycle to the station; if you commute would you now consider cycling?  Did the old facilities put you off leaving your bike there?  Or did you find there was never enough space?

Larry Heyman, First Capital Connect’s Integration and Partnership Manager, said; “The new cycle parking in Harpenden will be welcomed by the many rail passengers who choose to cycle to the station.”  Is Mr Heyman right?  Has the £57,000 investment improved your commute to work or do you think there is another area of the station which would have benefitted from the money more?

If you use the cycle racks I’d love to hear your opinions on the improvements which have been made.