Cyclists using Southall train station will soon be able to enjoy new cycle parking close to the station.
Ealing Council is creating a new cycle hub that can store up to 66 bikes, at the south end of South Road Bridge. This project is part of its commitment to making active travel easier.
The hub has been designed with safety and security in mind. As well as being well lit with new LED lighting, it will be monitored by CCTV, with good visibility from the street to deter anti-social behaviour.
Southall station was upgraded as part of the new Elizabeth line and has resulted in improved accessibility and better facilities for residents and visitors to the area. The upgrade also included a new foot and cycle bridge on Merrick Road, east of Southall station, which re-opened in December 2022.
The bridge, which had been closed for a number of years, has ‘Dutch style’ cycle ramps on the stairs, so cyclists can wheel rather than carry their bike up the stairs when using it.
The revamped bridge has connected the north and south of Southall and created a quiet route away from the main roads for pedestrians and cyclists. There are plans to add a lift once funding is available.
Ealing Council leader, councillor Peter Mason, said: “Thanks to investments driven by the council, the areas around Southall station have radically changed – and there is still more to come.
“The new cycle hub is close to completion and once open will provide a safe and secure place for cyclists to park their bikes when using the station.
“The hub utilises and improves a piece of land which had attracted anti-social behaviour. The introduction of the covered cycle hub should help deter and avoid future issues.”
Councillor Deirdre Costigan, deputy leader of Ealing Council and cabinet member for climate action, said: “We’ve been working closely with Southall residents to look at ways to reduce congestion and air pollution in the town by making it easier to walk, run, scoot or cycle. The new cycle hub is just one of many changes we are introducing to help make Southall healthier and to tackle air pollution.
“We’ve produced a new cycle network plan to join up the borough by bike, installed over 100 new bike hangars and we’re working on delivering the next stage of the Southall to Hanwell segregated cycle lane. And there’s more to come.
“We’re planning to spend £28million just this year to improve our streets, with improved better road and pavement surfaces as well as more trees, wildflowers, natural flood defences and places to sit, chat and play.”
The cycle hub is due to open in June.
