Empty former Primark store to be turned into cycle hub
In order to establish a bicycle hub in Reading town centre, Reading Borough Council has opted to lease the former Primark location on West Street.
Although Primark still owns the site, the council has a lease in place with the retailer that allows it to utilise the unit as the upcoming cycle hub. It will have 82 safe bicycle parking places, as well as a lending and donation programme. It will be open every day from 7am until 7pm.
Plans for the Cycle Hub were overwhelmingly accepted after being presented back in June.
The council will have an option on the scheme for three years. The Department of Transport’s Capability Fund has provided the council with cash towards the hub's development totalling £250,000. Although that's only for one year. Further funding will need to be confirmed for years two and three.
Councillor Tony Page said this about the news: “For years a fundamental part of our cycling strategy has been to try and improve secure cycle parking in the town centre, and particularly with the development of electric bikes there’s a real need to offer a facility that can offer much greater security than is currently available."
“The problem of bike thefts is at historic highs, it’s a problem we are plagued with. We’re also hoping that this hub will encourage a restoration of that facility. The intention is to offer repairs, advice, and generally further stimulate safe cycling in the borough.”
Councillor James Moore added: “If we are going to look at the cycle hub as a place for repairs we should definitely choose to involve the Bicycle Kitchen (on Weldale Street) who are still very much an active part of the community.”
Main picture courtesy of The Reading Chronicle
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