London’s cycling boom is no accident—it’s the result of sustained investment in infrastructure, creating safer routes and encouraging more people to cycle. The capital’s strategic cycle network has expanded from 90km in 2016 to over 400km today, now longer than the London Underground. In 2023/24 alone, TfL introduced 20 new Cycleways, connecting 600,000 more Londoners to protected cycling routes.
The impact is clear: cycling journeys are up 26% compared to 2019, and in some areas, cyclists now outnumber cars. TfL’s long-term ambition is for 40% of Londoners to live near a safe cycle route by 2030, making cycling a viable and attractive transport option.
Source: Transport for London, 2024. New TfL data shows London cycling continues to rise
With more people cycling, the demand for secure, accessible cycle parking is growing fast. Without sufficient infrastructure, London risks stalling its progress. Bike theft remains a major issue: According to Cycling UK, there were 66,960 bicycle theft cases recorded in England and Wales between April 2023 and March 2024. Data shows 66% of bike theft victims cycle less afterward, and 25% stop entirely—a clear sign that security is essential for sustained cycling growth.
Why investing in secure cycle parking is essential
For cycling to grow, cycle parking must be as (or more) convenient and reliable as car parking. Investing in secure storage helps cities, businesses and communities by:
- Encouraging more people to cycle: Knowing there’s a safe place to park increases confidence.
- Reducing theft and vandalism: Well-designed cycle hubs, Bikehangars, and security measures make theft significantly harder.
- Maximising space efficiency: Two-tier Racks, covered Bike Shelters, and High-density Racks allow cities to accommodate more bikes in compact areas. A bike is significantly smaller than a car!
- Supporting active travel goals: Government backed cycling targets rely on safe, connected infrastructure, including secure cycle parking.
- Boosting economic activity: Studies show cyclists spend more in local businesses than drivers. Safe parking makes destinations more attractive to cyclists and will lead to higher spend in these locations.
The future of cycle parking in the UK
Across the UK, momentum is building for better cycling infrastructure. With Active Travel England directing over £291 million in new funding toward walking and cycling initiatives, the opportunity to transform how we move through towns and cities has never been clearer.
But cycle routes alone aren’t enough. To make cycling a reliable, everyday option, we must also solve the parking problem.
From the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Cycling and Walking’s recent report on Active Travel and Social Justice to Sustrans’ research into transport poverty, a clear message is emerging: secure, accessible cycle parking is essential for making active travel inclusive and viable. Here’s where targeted investment is urgently needed:
- Secure cycle hubs at transport interchanges: Encouraging bike-and-ride commutes with lockable storage such as our Cyclehoop Trips solution.
- Workplace cycle facilities: Expanding cycle parking, showers, and changing areas in offices. Only 39% of workplaces provide dedicated cycle parking, limiting cycling’s potential for commuting.
- Residential cycle storage solutions: Expanding on-street Bikehangars and internal storage options for flats and apartments. Many homes lack secure cycle parking, leaving residents to store bikes indoors or at risk of theft outside. A recent Sustrans report highlights how better cycle parking can improve accessibility for people on lower incomes. highlights how better cycle parking can improve accessibility for people on lower incomes.
- Public Bike Shelters and Hubs – Ensuring high-footfall areas like shopping areas, schools and universities provide secure parking. A Cycling UK survey found that 60% of cyclists struggle to find secure parking near workplaces and transport hubs, discouraging active travel.
To meet cycling targets, cycle parking must expand at the same pace as cycling itself. Cities that invest in smart, secure parking solutions will reap the benefits of a healthier, greener and more mobile population.
Investing in cycle parking to support London’s growth
London has made a concerted effort to improve cycling, proving that when cities invest in infrastructure, people respond. This progress has been made possible thanks to the collective work of local authorities, charities, and organisations—including the Mayor of London’s office, Will Norman (London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner), London Cycling Campaign, and Wheels for Wellbeing—all advocating for safer, more inclusive streets.
Each of these stakeholders has played a role in reshaping how London moves. From expanding protected cycle routes and reducing car dominance, to embedding equity and access at the heart of policy, they’ve helped turn cycling into a visible, viable transport option. But cycling growth can only be sustained if cycle parking keeps up. This means:
- Expanding Bikehangars and secure Cycle Hubs in residential areas, workplaces, and transport hubs
- Ensuring every new Cycleway has corresponding high-quality cycle parking facilities
- Supporting businesses and councils to install cycle parking that meets growing demand
London has proven that investment in cycling infrastructure leads to real change. To sustain its momentum, cycle parking must be treated as an essential part of the city’s active travel ecosystem. A truly cycle-friendly London is one where safe, secure parking is as easy to find as a Cycleway itself.
Want to improve cycle parking in your town, city, business or development? Contact our team for expert guidance on tailored cycle storage solutions.