New Portsmouth bike hangars spark controversy

Portsmouth City Council is set to construct new bike hangars on residential streets in an effort to create a ‘greener and cleaner city’.

The hangars are being put in place to provide a safe and covered place for residents who have no space in their homes. They will be able to accommodate 4–6 bikes, offering a secure lockable place for keen cyclists to keep their bicycles.

The new project has sparked a lot of controversy online.

Ian Lyons, a cycling fanatic from Southsea, said: ‘The more I think about it, the more I dislike the idea. They’re intended for people who are struggling but will only increase the maintenance costs for those least able to afford it.’

The hangar comes with a fair £30 yearly cost, however Ian argues: ‘They will still attract thieves I’m afraid, and storing bicycles outdoors will increase maintenance costs, I honestly think the idea is well intentioned but deeply flawed.’

Ian also advises bike lovers to ‘research the many innovative ways to store a bicycle on an indoor wall, it can be very stylish, and will encourage you to clean it properly’.

Many locals are excited for this new eco-friendly prospect which is pushing their city in a more environmentally cautious direction.

The council will run a six-month trial period from March to September in eights roads across the city to determine the effectiveness of the project.

Spaces in the hangar will be allocated to residents who live near them and, due to the limited space, spots will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information go to: https://travel.portsmouth.gov.uk/schemes/bikehangars/?fbclid=IwAR2VZdaiCbbSEynHkFjxMX7bXe0GrOtdF8QMF4hY7aoGa1b35JHPlgGhTCw