Bog standard cycle storage and parking

For those of us who are short of space, bike storage is an exercise in creativity. And in some cases, desperation. One of us in the ETA cycle insurance team has their bike double up as a loo roll holder to earn its place in the bathroom.

Truly cycle-friendly cities are thin on the ground here in the UK. However, elsewhere local planning laws require new buildings to provide ample, good-quality cycle parking.

Cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen mandate that new developments include a minimum number of cycle parking spaces relative to the number of units or expected visitors.

For example, the Fietsenstalling at Amsterdam Central Station accommodates 7,000 bicycles. As well as providing high-quality and secure cycle parking, it provides a powerful boost to multimodal travel.

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On a smaller scale, these storage spaces are often integrated into basements, utility areas, or at the very least, outdoor racks that are sheltered from the elements. And in areas where this isn't possible, cities can replace car parking spaces with bike parking.

The culture around bike ownership and use in the Netherlands has inspired a pragmatic approach to cycle parking in many areas.

Many Dutch cyclists own relatively inexpensive bikes that they are comfortable leaving locked to outdoor cycle stands. This reduces the need for secure, indoor cycle parking and makes it easier to provide sufficient parking. This widespread acceptance of outdoor cycle parking means simple, cost-effective and space-efficient bike stands can be installed throughout urban areas.

Meanwhile, here in the UK, even bog-standard bike parking is sporadic.

If you're lucky enough to have outdoor space of your own, you may be pleased to learn the government looks set to change to planning law to allow 'further flexibilities to permit bike stores in front gardens'.

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The government is proposing to allow bike stores in front gardens, including homes in conservation areas. The size of the bike sheds would be restricted to 2 metres in width, 1 metre in depth and 1.5 metres in height.

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Why does planning permission for bike stores need to change?

You might have assumed that if you're lucky enough to have a front garden, it's safe to assume you can put up a small shed to store your bicycle? Not necessarily.

In theory, any structure erected in a front garden requires planning consent. However, in practice you're probably OK unless you live in a strict conservation area or a neighbour complains. If that happens it's likely you'll have to apply for planning permission.

Many local councils support cycling so it's always worth giving your local planning team a call - who knows, you may live in an area that installs bike hangers when there's enough of a demand.

Assuming you get a shed, be aware that thieves now target them specifically and as a result, many cycle insurance companies now insist on a high level of door lock security.

By contrast, Cycle insurance from the ETA has a sympathetic policy towards keeping bicycles in a shed. You can use any type of lock to secure the door and the bike doesn’t have to be locked while left inside – although if it’s visible through a window you have to cover it with a blanket or similar. Read more about storage requirements.

The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance, breakdown cover  and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.

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