Cyclists say they feel safer leaving their bikes in a town centre after the installation of 22 secure storage pods to prevent theft.

The new pods, situated across Newark town centre, have proved such a big hit among residents that six more are now due to be installed.

Twenty two of the pods were installed in March, as part of the Newark Safer Streets project, which is being delivered by the Office for the Police and Crime Commissioner, in partnership with Newark and Sherwood District Council, Nottinghamshire Police and Nottinghamshire City Council.

The latest review showed that all of the pods are being well used by local residents on a daily basis.

Bikers are especially making use of the pods on a Thursday and Friday when the town market takes place.

Each of the bike pods can hold two bikes, making a total of 44 secure spaces available every day. They were installed in locations including Chatham Court, Morrisons and Waitrose supermarkets, Baldertongate, St Mark’s Place and Queen’s Court.

Positioned outside shops and community facilities, they offer cyclists coming into the area additional protection and security to lock up their bikes and go about their day knowing their bikes are safe and secure.

Each pod protects the front wheel within a casing, while the frame and rear wheel are secured using just a single lock.

Coddington resident Andy White said: “I use the bike storage every day when I cycle into town for work. 

“They are simple to use and conveniently located and mean that I can cycle down Beacon Hill into town and lock my bike up, probably even quicker than if I took the car.

“Plus, I’m finding that the exercise really helps wake my brain up in the morning before work.  I’m glad to see them in the town centre and am pleased that more are yet to come.”

GPS tracking devices have also been handed out as part of the Safer Street’s project to help reduce cycle theft, identify stolen bikes and assist in owner recovery.

The trackers, which are worth more than £100 each, have helped give cyclists that extra bit of security when it comes to protecting their bikes.

Free bike marking sessions have also taken place throughout the year.

Insp Charlotte Allardice, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “We know that cycling is really popular in our area and understand that bike theft is a real concern for the community.

“It’s great to see that these cycle pods are having such a positive response to the people in the town and that they are being used so much a further six are going to be installed.”

The project aims to help police and crime commissioners, local authorities and their partners to secure extra resources and tools to prevent street crime, especially burglaries robberies and vehicle crimes.

Coun Keith Girling, deputy leader at the district council, added, “It’s great to see the cycle pods are in regular use by our residents and alongside the other safer streets initiatives it demonstrates our commitment to being cleaner, safer and greener.”

Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Caroline Henry said: “I am delighted local people are reaping the benefits of these new cycle pods, funded through the original Safer Streets project.  

“We know that a clean environment and additional security provision reduces the opportunity for crime.” 

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