Abandoned bikes to be donated to cycling charity

ABANDONED bicycles at railways stations in Fife and across the network in Scotland are to be given a new lease of life, as ScotRail introduces a policy that will see unclaimed bikes renewed or recycled.

The new strategy will allow ScotRail staff to identify and label bicycles considered abandoned, before placing them in secure storage to be reclaimed.

If the bikes aren’t reclaimed within three months, they will then be recycled, or donated to ScotRail’s nominated cycling charity Cycling UK for reuse.

New signage will be rolled out at stations designed to inform owners about the new policy.

David Lister, ScotRail Safety and Sustainability Director, said: “It’s great to see so many of our customers cycle to our stations, but it’s right that we maintain sufficient cycle parking by removing and recycling unwanted or abandoned bikes.

“Our new policy will be highlighted to customers through improved signage, and there is a three-month grace period for abandoned bikes to be reclaimed.

“We’re delighted to be able to collaborate with Cycling UK, enabling abandoned bikes to be renewed or reused, sharing ScotRail’s commitment to delivering low-carbon, environmentally friendly ways to travel.”

Sarah McMonagle, Director of External Affairs at Cycling UK, added: “The benefits of cycling are huge, but you can’t choose to cycle if you don’t have access to a bike. This scheme will provide new owners with the health and wellbeing benefits that come from cycling, plus increased independence through a low-cost transport option.”