Maximising the quality and security of cycle parking infrastructure to support active travel growth

When designing new residential developments, transport hubs, or public spaces, one often-overlooked detail can make a real difference: cycle parking. But good cycle parking isn’t just functional. Thoughtfully designed storage can be sleek, intuitive, and even a little inspiring—encouraging people to cycle while giving them confidence that their bike is safe. A well-considered rack or locker can subtly communicate: “Cyclists are welcome here.”

High-quality cycle parking supports sustainability targets, reduces congestion, and signals that communities value active travel. Conversely, poorly designed storage can discourage cycling, no matter how convenient the surrounding routes are. With active travel firmly on the agenda for councils and developers, infrastructure must now combine security, capacity, and good design.

Why secure cycle parking matters more than ever

Cycling across the UK has remained popular even after the initial pandemic boom. Nationally, people made roughly 0.9 billion cycle trips in 2023, with the average adult completing around 15 trips per year. In cycling hubs such as Cambridge, almost half of adults cycle at least once a week, while in London’s financial district the daily number of cyclists in 2024 exceeded the number of cars on the streets during peak hours. These figures demonstrate that, given the right infrastructure, cycling can become a practical, mainstream mode of transport.

At the same time, bicycles themselves have become more valuable. Many commuters now ride high-specification road bikes, cargo bikes, and e-bikes, which represent a significant personal investment. Security is therefore a critical concern. Fear of theft remains a primary barrier, especially in urban centres and at transport hubs where bikes may be left unattended for long periods. Well-designed, certified infrastructure gives riders confidence that their investment is safe while encouraging everyday cycling.

Developers, housing providers, and transport operators are responding by prioritising certified security, high-capacity solutions, flexible access, and intuitive wayfinding. Innovations in design continue to meet these evolving expectations, blending functionality with visual appeal and usability.

Maximising capacity in space-constrained environments

Urban sites often face a familiar challenge: how to fit enough cycle spaces into a limited footprint. Double-tier systems and modular storage solutions increasingly provide the answer.

The Fullerton Double-Tier Bicycle Locker is a prime example. Its robust, space-efficient design stacks bicycles vertically, maximising capacity without compromising usability. Available with mechanical key, PIN pad, or smart electronic locking, the locker can be tailored for residential developments, workplaces, or managed schemes. By combining security with a premium, thoughtfully considered design, the Fullerton locker makes high-density storage feel effortless rather than cumbersome. Its clean lines and modular aesthetic also allow it to blend seamlessly into contemporary streetscapes, adding to the sense that cycling is welcome and supported.

Providing secure individual storage solutions

Not all projects need high-density racks. Residential developments and workplaces often require individual, long-term storage that protects bicycles from both theft and the elements.

The LEXINGTON Bike Box addresses this need. Fully enclosed and robustly constructed, it gives cyclists peace of mind when storing higher-value bicycles or e-bikes, particularly overnight. Its design balances practicality with visual appeal, making it suitable for both new-build and retrofit schemes where security and aesthetics matter equally. Cyclists appreciate the thoughtful layout and ease of access, while developers and landlords benefit from a durable, low-maintenance solution.

Delivering high-capacity residential cycle storage

In residential streetscapes and public spaces where land is limited, compact, high-capacity storage is essential. The Cyclepod Hangar offers a modular approach, accommodating multiple bicycles within a secure, compact footprint. Sold Secure Diamond-rated protection ensures independent verification of security, giving peace of mind to both residents and operators.

The Hangar’s modularity allows it to be tailored to streets, housing estates, or community spaces. It maximises storage without overwhelming the site, blending practicality with a subtle design presence. By combining space efficiency, certified security, and thoughtful design, the Hangar helps councils, housing providers, and developers deliver infrastructure that encourages everyday cycling.

The importance of independent testing and certification

As cycling grows in popularity and bike values rise, independent verification of security is increasingly vital. Accreditation schemes such as Sold Secure demonstrate that products have been rigorously tested against attempted theft.

Bailey Street Furniture Group is pleased to confirm that the CapaCity Two Tier Bike Rack has achieved Sold Secure Silver-level certification. For developers and transport operators, specifying certified products reduces risk and builds user confidence. For cyclists, visible certification signals that their bike is protected by infrastructure tested to the highest standard—a reassurance that can influence the decision to cycle in the first place.

Enhancing user experience at major transport hubs

Security and capacity alone are not enough. High-capacity hubs must also be intuitive, accessible and easy to navigate, particularly during peak commuting periods.

A recent example is Richmond Station, where Bailey Street Furniture Group installed extensive cycle parking across three floors. The scheme incorporates the newly certified Sold Secure CapaCity racks, alongside Sold Secure Diamond-rated StreetPods, providing cyclists with independently tested, high-security infrastructure.

To help cyclists easily identify their bike location within this large facility, each level has been colour-coded using customisable capacity end caps. This thoughtful wayfinding approach transforms what could be a stressful experience into a straightforward and reliable one.

The hub accommodates hundreds of bicycles while maintaining a clear, user-friendly layout. By integrating wayfinding, high capacity and independently certified security, the Richmond project demonstrates how considered design can enhance usability without compromising function.

Integrating cycle parking into wider development strategies

Best practice begins early. Developers should consider anticipated users, site layout and likely dwell times. Residential schemes typically require long-term, secure storage, while commercial developments may need a mix of short- and long-stay parking. Transport hubs must accommodate peak demand while maintaining accessibility.

Other practical considerations include weather exposure, lighting, surveillance and ease of maintenance. Infrastructure must be durable and resilient, particularly in unmonitored locations. Equally important is aesthetic integration: premium finishes, coordinated materials and subtle design details help cycle parking complement the surrounding architecture and landscape rather than feeling like an afterthought. Well-designed infrastructure can enhance the visual character of a site, making streets feel safer, more vibrant and welcoming.

For developers, architects and transport planners looking to deepen their understanding of best practice, Bailey Street Furniture Group offers a comprehensive Guide to Cycle Parking CPD presentation. The session explores security standards, capacity planning, compliance, user experience and design integration, providing practical insight to support successful project delivery from concept through to completion.

To learn more, visit: https://www.bsfg.co.uk/cpd

Looking forward: the evolving role of cycle parking

As cycling continues to grow in the UK, the need for high-quality, secure, and user-friendly infrastructure will only increase. Future projects will require flexibility, allowing storage to adapt to changing demand and technology, from e-bikes to cargo bikes.

Investing in well-designed cycle parking today pays dividends for the long term: higher uptake of cycling, lower transport congestion, and more liveable streets. By combining security, capacity, and thoughtful design, BSFG solutions illustrate how infrastructure can meet practical needs while enhancing place quality and encouraging active travel for all.

To find out more about Bailey Street Furniture Group cycle parking solutions and recent projects, visit bsfg.co.uk