Salisbury’s busy railway station will soon be benefiting from the installation of a Co Bikes electric bike station, providing a seamless and zero carbon onward commuting option.
The investment by South Western Railway is due to them successfully securing over £1 million in grants from government, local authorities and third-party funding sources to improve cycle-rail connectivity across their network. In Salisbury, match funding is through a partnership with the Swindon and Wiltshire LEP delivered through Wiltshire Council. This will provide a Co Bikes station and 10 electrically assisted bikes alongside an improved and expanded cycle hub for standard bikes. Co Bikes can be rented from the station using the nextbike app and will cost just £1 per 20 minutes*.
Andrew Ardley, Regional Development Manager for South Western Railway, commented:
“We’re very pleased to secure this investment on behalf of our stakeholders. Onward travel from stations to local employment sites and other key destinations such as tourist attractions including Stonehenge is an essential part of the total product that the railway offers – it doesn’t just start and end at the station. We look forward to working with Co Bikes and Wiltshire Council on developing the Salisbury station site. The e-bikes are a major step forward in comfort and ease of use ”
Mark Hodgson, Managing Director of Co Cars and Co Bikes, added:
“Shared bike schemes are rapidly becoming an increasing feature of our urban landscape. They are at their most effective when they connect with other sustainable modes of transport as well as key leisure, employment and residential destinations. I look forward to this being the first step in Co Bikes being able to provide this service in Salisbury.”
Pauline Church, Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for Salisbury residents to get on their bikes and benefit from zero-carbon commuting. Wiltshire Council is funding this project alongside SWLEP, and we’re delighted to support this important initiative to improve the air quality in our city.”
*Plus £10 deposit when registering which is redeemable against trips. Day rate of £24 applies for trips between 8 and 24 hours.
