The planning process has begun for the London Cycle Hire scheme, with the aim of getting it up and running for May 2010.
Transport for London (TfL) began submitting planning applications yesterday for about 400 cycle docking stations – the locations where people will be able to pick up and drop off hire bikes in central London.
The aim is to have a docking station every 300 metres, so people who want to use or lock up a bicycle should never be more than a couple of minutes' walk away from one. See the map below for details of where TfL hope to site them.
The first four planning applications are being submitted to Camden Council. More will be submitted throughout the spring and summer.
Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: “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.
"Much like hailing a cab, people will be able to pick up one of 6,000 bikes and zip around town to their heart's content – not only a quick, easy and healthy option, but one that will also make London a more liveable city."
When it launches in May next year, the London Cycle Hire scheme is expected to generate an additional 40,000 bicycle journeys every day. TfL is funding cycle training across London’s boroughs.
David Brown, managing director of surface transport at TfL, said: “The Cycle Hire scheme will 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.
“Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, 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.”
Initial proposed docking station locations
Map showing the locations where london cycle hire docking stations could be based:
For a full list of proposed docking station sites, click here.
