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Leeds Cycle Point Officially Opened

Transport Minister and Dutch Ambassador signal a start to unique UK initiative

Posted: 30th September 2010

L to R: Norman Baker, Anton Valk, Pim Waldeck and Steve Butcher enjoy the Leeds Cyclepoint

Yesterday signalled a start to a new wave of Dutch inspired cycling in the UK with the official unveiling of the Leeds CyclePoint. Opened by Transport Minister, Norman Baker, and the Dutch Ambassador, His Excellency Pim Waldeck, the CyclePoint will give commuters greater freedom in the routes they take which is based around the bike.

The CyclePoint is based on a successful Dutch model brought to the UK by Abellio, joint owners of local train company Northern Rail. Evans Cycles operate the facility and offer fully secure and staffed parking, alongside bike rental, on-site repairs and servicing by cytech trained mechanics, and equipment sales and advice.

Commenting on the launch, Transport Minister Norman Baker said, "It's vitally important we make the beginning and end of people's journeys as simple as possible - that's the couple of miles from home to station - so that the bike and train option becomes as easy as jumping in our cars for long journeys."

With this unique facility now in full operation it will help to alleviate congestion from a busy city centre, promote cycling and getting people active, and give a daily commute that little bit of excitement! Perhaps the biggest bonus is giving users piece of mind of leaving their bike in a secure environment and having the support of Evans Cycles for repairs, sales, rental and advice.

Mike Rice, Managing Director of Evans Cycles, had this to say "Having seen the CyclePoint in action we think this is a huge step forward for cycling in the UK and are excited to be apart of this from the first steps. We hope to see more and more of these popping up and following in the footsteps of our Dutch neighbours!"

The Leeds CyclePoint is located in the iconic rotunda at the front of Leeds station, in partnership with several local organisations including Abellio, Northern Rail, Network Rail, Metro, Leeds City Council and the operators of the facility Evans Cycles.

With Leeds being a leading cycling city and having a proactive approach to new initiatives Evans Cycles are excited to announce the opening of another store in Leeds. Opening in mid October and located on Station St in the city centre, the new store is a stones throw away from the CyclePoint and will offer an extended range of products and services to further help the cycling community in Leeds.

More: Leeds Cycle Point