Introduction to Cardiff's Bike Hangar Scheme
A city piloting a bike hangar scheme to assist cyclists residing in terraced homes with bike storage has been criticised for imposing the highest fees in the UK, leading to accusations of being 'anti-cycling'.
Cardiff has introduced a new annual fee of £120 for the use of these bike hangars, a charge deemed excessive for low-income cyclists by cycling campaigner Chris Roberts.
Roberts highlighted that in London, the average cost for a bike bay in a secure street-side shed, provided by the private company Cyclehoops, ranges between £50 and £60.
Cyclehoops declined to comment directly on the fees charged in Cardiff, referring inquiries to the council, which stated it is currently discussing with the company "how the rates were set".
Background and Implementation of the Scheme
The concept of bike hangars originated in Cardiff following a petition presented to the council in 2020. Subsequently, the city announced a pilot scheme in 2024 that involves installing corrugated metal sheds, each capable of storing up to six bikes, at 50 locations throughout the city.
The first 17 bike hangars were installed in March on residential streets within the Canton, Riverside, Plasnewydd, Cathays, and Splott areas of Cardiff.
"It was great news, until we found out they were going to be the most expensive bike hangars in the UK," Roberts said.
"In Splott, Cardiff you are paying more to park your bike than in Islington," he added.
Comparison of Fees Across UK Cities
Cyclehoops operates bike hanger services in various UK cities, with prices ranging significantly—from as low as £11 per year in Dundee, Scotland, to the £120 annual fee charged in Cardiff.
It is understood that Cardiff opted for a higher-cost maintenance agreement, which allows the company to repair any damage to the hangars more promptly.
However, Roberts pointed out that Cyclehoops’ website lists a standard fee of £72, with variations in pricing attributed to subsidies provided by local authorities.
"Not only is Cardiff council charging extra, it's almost double the price," Roberts stated, describing this as an "injustice".
Financial Context and Impact on Residents
Roberts argued that the city should be charging for the use of valuable space, noting that drivers pay £35 annually for residential street parking, which occupies the space equivalent to two bike hangars accommodating 12 bikes, generating fees of £1,440 per year.
He emphasized that most of these bike hangars are located in less affluent parts of the city, where residents are less likely to own a car or have access to a garage.
"For someone on a low income, £120 a year is a lot," Roberts said, adding that the high charges create an "income cut off point" and are therefore anti-cycling and contrary to the city's stated policies aimed at encouraging cycling for all.
Council Response
A spokesperson for Cardiff council commented:
"The council is in contact with the company to discuss how the rates were set in Cardiff and further information will be provided when it is available."
