New cycle rack hub approved for Windsor Leisure Centre

A secure cycle parking garage has been approved near Windsor Leisure Centre – replacing the ineffectual recycling facilities there.

The council’s approved a Royal Borough plan for this ‘cycle park hub’ on Stovell Road by Windsor Leisure Centre.

Windsor and Maidenhead council secured funding by Active Travel England for ‘the borough’s first secure cycling parking garage.’

Tim Golabek Interim Head of Service for Infrastructure, Sustainability and Economic Growth, wrote in the application cover letter:

“The location is currently a recycling site and is not well-used, with regular fly tipping of unrecyclable material in the area.

“This project will enable us to resolve the fly tipping issues as well as offer a secure bicycle parking facility.”

The proposed structure will include 36 cycle parking spaces with options for two-tier racks, Sheffield cycle stands, cargo stands and a pump and repair stand.

The entry system for the structure will be provided by Spokesafe. This system is instantly bookable via an app and provides both access and customer service 24/7.

There will be lockers provided for cyclists to store helmets and belongings. This parcel locker facility is being provided by InPost UK.

There are trees along the northern boundary of the site ‘which will be lost as a result of this proposal.’

An assessment was carried out and an agreement has been made for their removal and replacement tree planting behind the northern boundary.

“We believe this facility will encourage more cyclists to use their bikes and travel to the town centre area,” said Mr Golabek.

The application was made in September; supporting information was submitted in early November and amended plans came on November 16 showing the footway construction and cycle parking location.

To see all the plans related to this proposal, enter reference 23/02143/FULL in the Windsor and Maidenhead planning portal.