London cycle hire gets into gear for 2010

If planning is granted by London Councils, from May 2010, people will be able to pick up and drop off hire bikes at around 400 locations across London’s zone one travel area. The docking stations will be around 300 meters apart, so access to a bike is within a couple of minutes walk.

“I pledged to deliver a cycling revolution across the city, and there is now a growing excitement about our cycle hire scheme, which will give all Londoners the opportunity to hop on a bike and experience the joys of cycling," said the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson. "Much like hailing a cab, people will be able to pick up one of 6,000 bikes, and zip around town to their hearts content - not only a quick, easy, and healthy option, but one that will also make London a more liveable city."

David Brown, managing director of Surface Transport, Transport for London, said the scheme would be available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and would be "the most sustainable, environmentally friendly form of public transport ever seen in London", and will provide people with an inexpensive and convenient way of making short trips around London.

“The London Cycle Hire scheme will help to alleviate congestion hotspots on the tubes and buses in central London, as well as build on the massive growth London has already seen in cycle journeys in recent years. It forms a key part of the record £111 million the Mayor and TfL are investing in cycling this year, helping to revolutionise conditions for people who want to cycle in the capital,” he said.

The Mayor and TfL are investing £111.3 million in cycling in London this year. The money is being spent on introducing the cycle hire scheme, improving parking and road conditions for cyclists, education, training and promotion.