It is part of the ongoing work on the Integrated Transport Strategy and officers hope it will offer more opportunities for convenient bike parking, as well as some protection from the elements.
Three canopies have been installed in recent weeks to cover the existing cycle hoops at Albert Pier, South Esplanade and Beau Sejour Leisure Centre.
Next up is a canopy to cover the current cycle hoops at the top of Smith Street (by the Sunken Gardens) and four new cycle hoops at the end of October at Market Street (next to the accessible parking bays by the Co-operative).
“Cycling is a relatively low cost and accessible way of travelling”
Alex Costen, Active Travel Officer for the Health Improvement Commission, supported the initiative.
“Cycling is a relatively low cost and accessible way of travelling, with the benefit of improving physical and mental health and well-being, but also helping to reduce traffic on our roads.
“We hope more will take up cycling as a means of getting around now that bikes don’t have to be left out in the rain.”
New cycle hoops and shelters are also being installed at the Princess Elizabeth Hospital, near the main services entrances of the hospital. This is in anticipation of the Hospital Modernisation Programme.
“We are delighted to see these initiatives to help encourage more people onto their bikes,” said Dr Nicola Brink, Director of Public Health Services.
“Alongside all the wellbeing benefits, cycling can help to protect you from serious diseases such as stroke, heart attack, some cancers, depression, diabetes, obesity and arthritis.”