Non-conventional cycle provision

Research is currently underway to update cycling guidance as per LTN 2/08. Part of this guidance concerns the provision of cycle parking. Currently there is minimal provision for disabled cyclists in most car parks and research has shown that just over a third of disabled cyclists have been unable to park or store a non-standard cycle due to inadequate facilities. This could be, for instance, insufficiently wide cycle parking bays. Just like all other cyclists, disabled cyclists need to know that when they leave the house they can be confident of locating adequate cycle parking and storage facilities at their destination.

People's Parking has always advocated that parking operators provide cycle parking for disabled cyclists and unconventional cycles, and we encourage all parking operators in our scheme to look at their parking provisions and how they could accommodate more non-standard cycle parking.

Currently there are very few cycle parking facilities designed to accommodate non-standard cycles. Almost all cycle parking stands (e.g. the Sheffield Stand) are intended for use by standard two-wheeled bicycles and are generally placed too close to each other to fit a three-wheeled cycle between them.

Specially allocated spaces for non-standard cycles could be installed within existing cycle parking facilities. These spaces should be accessible, step-free and wide enough to accommodate all types of non-standard cycle. They should be clearly signposted, with signage denoting that these spaces have been reserved for non-standard cycles, and monitored. They should also stand out in some way so as to differentiate from other cycle parking (e.g. with the use of ground markings, symbols, different coloured paint on stands).

Most non-standard cycles are either self-standing (tricycles) or have a stand (cargo bikes). For such cycles a half-height, longer length stand, which is both low enough to prevent a standard two-wheeled bicycle usefully leaning against it, but at the same time is no lower than half-height (as some people will have difficulties bending down) could be used. Such cycle parking bays should be built in groups, be well-marked, well-lit and preferably sheltered, in order to reduce misuse and tripping hazard.

In addition some ground fixings in longer, wider spaces could also be provided e.g. the Motu parking bracket. This design is not a tripping hazard because it retracts into the ground when not in use. However, these will not meet the needs of some people with limited leg/foot control, or who cannot bend to the ground, and so should only be in addition to lower stands.

Cycle storage units, such as lockers and hangers, often exclude disabled cyclists because they are too small to accommodate the dimensions of non-standard cycles. Having access to step-free, safe, secure storage facilities is vital for disabled cyclists. Many existing cycle storage units could be adapted or retrofitted to accommodate larger cycles.

With just a few simple changes cycle parking could be made far more accessible to people with non-standard cycles and this in itself is likely to encourage more people to get on their bike.

Many thanks to the organisation Wheels for Wellbeing for the information.