Parking made easier for Fremantle's cyclists

20/9/06

A new lock-and-ride bike parking facility in Fremantle will provide added security for train users who ride to the station.

Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan today officially opened Australia's first such facility in the former Parcels Office at Fremantle.

"I am firmly committed to ensuring our public transport system caters for cyclists as part of its passenger mix," Ms MacTiernan said.

"Fremantle Station attracts about 140 cycling commuters every day, and currently has 16 lockers and 25 U-rails for secure bicycle parking to cater for this growing trend.

"Today we have added a further 90 U-rails in a covered and locked facility, which will be under 24/7 video surveillance.

"While it is on a much smaller scale, the concept is based on the practice in European cities like Zurich, Copenhagen and throughout Holland, where thousands of bicycles are stored in a secure area and supported by on-site repair and related facilities.

"There are now bicycle parking facilities at 50 stations, and the Mandurah line will see the addition of a further 12 lockers and 83 U-rails."

The Minister said the Government would consider establishing similar facilities elsewhere, if the concept proved successful.

"Since the Labor Government came to power, Western Australia has led the nation in its integration of cycling with public transport.

"We are at the forefront of world best practice in the integration of bikes, buses, trains and ferries.

"Since first taking office, this Government - through the Planning and Infrastructure portfolio - has spent more than $72million on cycling programs in both city and country areas as part of getting people out of their cars and getting healthy - and mixing cycling with public transport is a great way of doing that."