Bike Shelters Installed

A BICYCLE shelter has been installed near Chalkwell Beach, in a bid to get residents cycling more across the city.

Seven cycle parking shelters have been installed across Southend, all of which are funded by the Department for Transport’s Active Travel Fund.

A spokesperson from the council said: “The Chalkwell Esplanade cycle shelter is one of seven secure cycle parking shelters installed by the council across the city including East Beach, Shoebury Common, Marine Parade, Chalkwell Park, Priory Park, and Belfairs Park.

“The cycle shelters will provide protection from all weathers, theft and vandalism and we hope they will encourage more people to cycle with the peace of mind they can safely store their bicycle in a secure shelter.”

Despite the shelters being installed under permitted development rights, a segment of the community has voiced dissatisfaction with their appearance.

Leading the chorus of disagreement is Stephen Aylen, a non-aligned councillor for Belfairs Ward.

Speaking of bicycle shelters placed in Belfairs, he said: “They don’t need planning permission, which boggles the mind as other cycle places usually need planning permission.”

Coun Aylen described the shelters as “ugly” and questioning the use of “bright colours.”

He added: “How will you use them? There are no details.

“I want this one in Belfairs to be removed, and I will push to get it removed.”

A Facebook discussion amongst residents erupted when images of the shelter at Chalkwell Esplanade were shared.

“Total eyesore, not in keeping with area and totally ruins the view and atmosphere on this part of the front,” wrote one resident on the Southend City Discussion Group.

Another said: “As if a bike shed ruins a whole area – honestly the stuff people get mad about, it’s crazy. There are literally people dying from war and sickness.”

The spokesperson from the council added: “The cycle shelters will provide protection from all weathers, theft and vandalism and we hope they will encourage more people to cycle with the peace of mind they can safely store their bicycle in a secure shelter.”

Picture: The new shelter at Chalkwell Beach. Pic Leigh News

Read more.

Visit: https://leigh-on-sea.news

Contact us. Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leighonsea.news

Twitter: @leighonsea_news

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leighonsea.news