Southend-on-Sea City Council has announced the opening of eight new digital cycle hubs across the city.
The scheme, funded through the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Active Travel Fund, aims to improve the security and convenience of cycling for both residents and visitors.
The introduction of the cycle hubs is a response to a six-week consultation held in 2021, where participants expressed that they would cycle more if they felt their bikes were less likely to be damaged or stolen.
The hubs provide secure bike storage and are equipped with charging points for e-bikes, while access to the cycle hubs is managed through an app, ensuring that only registered users can gain entry.
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Users can take advantage of a trial period, costing £1 per month until mid-2025, to experience the full benefits before committing to a regular subscription.
After the trial period cyclists can continue to enjoy the hubs for just £1 per day or £10 per month, granting unlimited access to all the cycle hubs in the city.
Southend-on-Sea City Council cabinet member for climate, environment and waste, Lydia Hyde said: “These hubs are a positive step towards our commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
“By providing secure bike storage and e-Bike charging points, we are encouraging more residents to choose cycling over driving, which will reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality in our city.
“Additionally, the green roofs on these hubs look good and contribute to biodiversity, creating a greener, healthier Southend.”
Achievements and innovations inactive travel will be recognised and celebrated at the fourth annual CiTTi Awards on 25 November 2025 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit www.cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector!
