Cyclists using Marks Tey rail station are set to benefit from more secure cycle parking, with an extra 200 spaces now available.
The secure facilities will help to prevent bike theft as they can only be accessed using one of the train operator’s smart cards, so that people who cycle to and from the station can safely leave their bikes while they travel by train.
The new covered cycle parking areas have increased the station’s cycle parking capacity by over 300%.
CCTV and new lighting have also been installed to make cycle parking more secure.
Simone Bailey, Greater Anglia’s Asset Management Director, said: “We are continuing to improve our stations and offer convenient, secure integrated transport opportunities to help encourage more eco-friendly journeys and attract passengers back to rail once the current pandemic restrictions end.”
“More people are choosing to live in our region and travel by train, we are seeing increasing numbers of people cycling to stations so we’re keen to expand our cycling facilities, especially as it helps people to minimise their carbon footprint for the entire length of their journeys.
“Since the start of the pandemic, the number of people cycling in our region has soared, and the new facilities will help them to make more sustainable journeys and leave the car at home more.”
Additional spaces have already been installed at Bishop’s Stortford, Dullingham and Whittlesford Parkway stations, creating an extra 290 spaces.
Works are also progressing at Audley End, Braintree, Manningtree, March, Newmarket, Elsenham, Southend Victoria, Diss, and Rochford stations, with further locations planned later next year.
In total, the train operator will create almost 1,000 additional cycle parking spaces across its network.
Current Government advice is to stay at home unless you need to travel for permitted reasons including work and medical appointments.
Greater Anglia continues to ensure that rail travel is safe for staff and passengers with an enhanced cleaning regime, on stations and trains, concentrating on high-touch areas such as push buttons, grab rails and door handles.
The train operator has also introduced a wide range of measures to make it easier for customers to maintain social distancing at stations and on trains – including floor markings, one-way systems, new signs and queuing systems.
It is now mandatory for customers to wear a face covering when using public transport, to help reduce the spread of Covid-19. Children under the age of 11 and people with a disability or illness which means they cannot wear a face covering are exempt from wearing them.