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The UK’s traditionally cycle sports-obsessed industry may be flatlining, but the cycle commuter sector is rocketing with statistics from the reputable Rail Delivery Group revealing that cycle-rail journeys are continuing to climb rapidly. The latest figures said cycle-rail journeys are now at 50 million a year, representing a 40 per cent rise in just six years.
Rail stations across the UK are investing in cycle spaces – up to 64,000 from 25,000 in five years to cope with increased demand. Plans are in place to increase that number further to 75,000 next year.
The Department for Transport has allocated £14.5million to improve railway station cycle facilities and a revamped online portal PlusBike has been designed to make it easier for customers to check cycle facilities in advance of travelling.
“Record numbers of people are getting on their bikes as part of their rail journeys," explained Jacqueline Starr, RDG MD of Customer Experience. "We have more cycle spaces at stations than ever before, and PlusBike shows people just how easy it is to take your cycle to the station or on the train, helping cycles play a key part of the customer journey.
“It’s great to see cycle-rail’s growth in popularity, and train operators and Network Rail are doing lots to improve facilities, working with government and local authorities.”
