Cycle rack boost sees 70 enhancements in the city

NEW or upgraded cycle racks are to be installed at 70 sites thoughout the city centre in a bid to encourage more cycling.

The scheme will see various designs of cycle rack - from the latest charging points for electric bikes to metal circles attached to lampposts and railings dotted around Birmingham.

It is the latest scheme from the £23 million Government funded Birmingham Cycle Revolution initiative – designed to get more Brummies on their bikes to increase healthy activity and reduction pollution and traffic congestion.

It also comes as the council is finalising plans to install cycle superhighways on the busy A38 Bristol Road and A34 Walsall Road commuter routes.

Meanwhile the Cycle Revolution funding has also paid for canal towpaths to be upgraded, cycle paths and lanes, bike training and a free bike giveaway to get more people on two wheels.

The West Midlands Mayor last month also unveiled plans for a region wide bike loan service – similar to London’s Santander Cycles.

Now 70 sites for bike racks have been earmarked and the council is asking city centre businesses and visitors for their views on whether they are right locations and right type of rack.

Cyclists have until November 17 to get their views in by emailing trans port.projects@birmingham.gov.uk