London to Start New Bicycle-Sharing Program

London is the latest city to get a bike-sharing program, with mayor Boris Johnson announcing that city residents will be able to pick up and drop off one of 6,000 bikes at 400 locations across the city. Before the plan is final, however, Johnson will have to get the “political buy-in” of all 9 London boroughs.

From The Guardian:

The bikes will be kept at docking stations and the design is expected to deter thieves. Renters will have to pay a deposit when they take the bicycles and there is expected to be an annual fee for registration.

Johnson said: “I have long held the view that a cyclised city is a civilised city, but if we are to get more Londoners on to two wheels rather than four we need to provide the facilities to help them do so.

“I hope a central-London cycle-hire scheme will inspire Londoners as a whole, and not just the adventurous few, to get on their bikes and give cycling a go. I believe that the work we are carrying out can make the capital a city of cyclists, where to use two wheels is common, not curious.”

Johnson invited companies to bid on the project, with JC Decaux – the French company that has set up bicycle sharing programs in 15 cities across the world – expressing interest.

Some boroughs have yet to give the green light because they have to get permission from the owners of the land on which the stations would be located. But, all are expected to join in, as Londoners are enthusiastic about the project.

It’s great to see so many cities take on bike-sharing programs. There’s no telling how many people will choose to ride a bicycle, see the scenery up close, interact with the community, and get exercise and fresh air instead of driving a motor vehicle. Beneficial to all involved!

Link [The Guardian]
Photo credit: Flickr User Malias

Related Posts:

Awesome News: America Catching On to the Bike-Sharing Coolness
During Economic Crisis, No Recession for Bicycle Makers
Bike-Sharing in the Capital
Colleges Giving Free Bikes to Students Who Promise to Leave Cars at Home
Bicycle Maker Grows Sustainable Bikes Made of Bamboo