Cycling News

London's 'Velib' on track for launch within 12 months

The Mayor of London's Cycle Hire scheme is on schedule for a May 2010 launch, as Transport for London gets the planning application process under way

Plans for the Mayor of London's Cycle Hire scheme moved a step closer today, as TfL began submitting planning applications for around 400 cycle docking stations - the locations where people will be able to pick-up and drop-off hire bikes in central London.

TfL has been working with its borough partners and The Royal Parks to identify the most suitable locations for the network of cycle hire docking stations, which will be based in London's zone one travel area. The 400 cycle stations will be situated approximately every 300 metres (although less frequently within The Royal Parks), so people who want to use or lock up a bicycle should never be more than a couple of minutes walk away from a docking station.

The first four planning applications are being submitted to Camden Council, and the remaining applications will be submitted throughout the spring and summer.

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said: "I pledged to deliver a cycling revolution across the city, and there is now a growing excitement about our cycle hire scheme, which will give all Londoners the opportunity to hop on a bike and experience the joys of cycling. Much like hailing a cab, people will be able to pick up one of 6,000 bikes, and zip around town to their hearts content - not only a quick, easy, and healthy option, but one that will also make London a more liveable city."

David Brown, Managing Director of Surface Transport, Transport for London, said:

"The Cycle Hire scheme will be the most sustainable, environmentally friendly form of public transport ever seen in London, and will provide people with an inexpensive and convenient way of making short trips around London.

"Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the London Cycle Hire scheme will help to alleviate congestion hotspots on the Tubes and buses in central London."

When it launches, the London Cycle Hire scheme - is expected to generate an additional 40,000 cycle journeys every day in central London.

The name of the company that will build and operate the London Cycle Hire scheme will be announced in June.

Published Monday 27 April 2009