Seven new Beryl Bike docking stations will be available in key locations across Watford this year, including the recently installed bay at Watford Junction.
Published: 16 March 2021
The Camelot-sponsored bike share scheme – operated by Beryl Bikes and Watford Borough Council – currently has 200 pedal bikes and 100 e-Bikes available from 59 bays located at key points around the town. The additional bays – which will also include e-Bike facilities – will improve availability, increase cycling opportunities and enhance connectivity in the town.
They will be based at the following locations: Watford Junction, Watford High Street, Bushey Mill Lane, Heather Lane, St Albans Road, Rhodes Way and Appletree Walk. Further bay locations are also under review, with the target is to install 82 bays across the borough, meaning that 90% of the population would be within a 5 minute walk (400m) from a bay.
The new bays at Watford Junction are part of the forecourt improvement programme of the station which was largely completed last year and saw the area transformed with new paving, lighting, green planting, seating, signposting and heritage trail. The presence of the distinctive emerald bikes outside the station will encourage the 8 million visitors per year to travel more sustainably within the town.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor said “These new bays will make it even easier for some people to use Beryl bikes, which are a clean, cheap and efficient way to get around. Ultimately making cycling a straightforward option for more people helps us to reduce congestion and emissions and helps people stay active and healthy in their day-to-day lives. We’ve already seen an increase in cycling through this popular scheme and will continue to look for ways to make improvements in the future.”
Beryl CEO, Philip Ellis said, “One of our core purposes at Beryl is to make sustainable transport available to all no matter the age, income or postcode of our users. These additional bays where bikes and e-bikes will be available to hire will continue to help Watford residents take sustainable trips for everyday journeys.”
“Studies have shown that cyclists visit local shops more regularly, spending more than users of other modes of transport. It also reveals that cycling parking can deliver five times higher retail spend when public domain improvements that cater to cyclists are implemented. As Watford begins its green recovery, Beryl can play a key role in rejuvenating the town’s local economy and a greener way of living.”
To contribute to the greening of the town and create a more enjoyable outdoor space for the whole community to enjoy, the docking stations will also include the use of planters – which are small landscaped areas with planting and signage.
After enjoying a trip, riders can tether the Beryl Bike in one of the designated locations ready for the next rider to pick up. For more information and how to download the app, please click here.