Wheels come off plan to create cycle hub
PLANS for a new cycle hub in Reading town centre have fallen through and now the council says it would be wheelie good to find an alternative location.
It had been hoped to create the secure facilities in the former Primark store on West Street – also once home to the Co-op department store. However, the fashion retailer which has offices in the same building, has pulled out leaving the proposals with more than a flat tyre.
Reading Borough Council says it is asking Primark for a detailed explanation for its decision to tell the council to get on their bike, and says it is now searching for alternative locations in the town centre.
It says it is working with project partners Ethical Reading, The Reading Bicycle Kitchen, and Avanti, on the search for an alternative site and will also remain in discussions with the Department of Transport, which provided funding for the project, about the next stage of progressing the plans.
Cllr John Ennis, lead councillor for climate strategy and transport at Reading Borough Council, said the news was disappointing
“There will be understandable frustration Primark has pulled out of the project at this late stage, and we entirely share that frustration,” he said.
“The Council now intends to move on swiftly and work to identify an alternative town centre location where a cycle facilities can be progressed, and a site which works for the Council, the property owner and, most importantly, for cyclists.
“We will be talking to building owners who have previously expressed an interest in getting involved, however, if you know of somewhere which might be willing to work on this project, please get in touch.”
He said that cycling, along with public transport, is a key element in the council’s ambition to reduce congestion and poor air quality in Reading.
“Secure cycling facilities will also be an important aspect of our overall vision,” he explained, saying the hub will provide more secure and enclosed parking facilities, with both experienced and novice cyclists in mind.
There was also the potential for other activities to be run from a hub such as a bicycle loan and/or bicycle donation scheme, by working with local cycle partners.