MK Cycle Hire Scheme

As you may already be aware following the press releases before Christmas, Milton Keynes is set to benefit from a new cycle hire scheme. The exciting project is jointly supported by Santander, Milton Keynes Council (MKC), Milton Keynes City Centre Management (MKCCM) and nextbike UK.

The scheme is expected to launch in Spring 2016 with up to 500 bikes and 60 docking stations around the city. Users will be able to hire bikes from any station on a self-service basis and can return them at any station. Whilst the hire tariff is yet to be confirmed, the fees will be affordable for both occasional and regular riders.

The Proposed Cycles

The bicycles are designed for maximum durability and ease of use. Our nextbikes can be found in 85 cities around the world and we’re confident that our users in Milton Keynes will enjoy the riding experience.

Each bike will feature the brand of Santander in recognition of the support provided – without which the scheme could not have been realised.

The Proposed Infrastructure

The proposed ‘smart bike’ system requires less infrastructure compared to larger systems that you may have seen (eg. in London). The solution was chosen for its flexibility and ease of installation. The groundworks required are minimal and stations can be expanded or relocated easily.

Each station will comprise a series of bike docks and ground plates plus a sign post providing information on the scheme including a map, prices and instructions. The size of the station will vary depending on the expected demand.

The exact design is currently being finalised and the image above is a representative visualisation.

Scheme Coverage Area

The station locations are currently being finalised together with Santander, MKC and MKCCM. We aim to launch with a minimum of 35 stations (phase 1) with a target of up to 60 stations.

The map below shows the proposed and preferred station locations which have been determined following extensive discussions and site surveys with input from all four parties involved.

The blue markers represent stations which we anticipate will be open on launch day and the yellow markers those that require permission or support from the landowners prior to installing. At this stage, this is being provided for information only and is subject to change.

You can view an interactive online version of the above map HERE:

The guiding principles behind the choices of locations are as follows:

 

• Maximising access by covering as many estates and key locations as possible
• Ensuring that density of stations / access is maintained to ensure that proximity to cycles is a comfortable walk within the coverage area
• Citing stations close to densely populated residential and business areas and community meeting places where possible
• Finding locations with sufficient space for installing and accessing stations
• Visibility of the location
• Security and safety of users whilst renting and returning cycles

Our objective throughout the station planning exercise is to maximise convenience and accessibility to the cycles for the community of Milton Keynes. We are very aware that individuals in some areas will be disappointed that scheme may not reach them, or perhaps not as fully as they would like. Prior to the scheme launching, and once live, we and our partners will be working closely with the community and we hope to grow and develop the scheme in time.

Comments & Questions

If you have any comments or questions about the project, please use the online form below and we will respond either by email or telephone.

Comments / questions form: http://goo.gl/forms/3bCojg9539

Useful links

Santander press release
nextbike UK website
Milton Keynes Council
Milton Keynes City Centre Management