Secure Cycle Hangars Introduced Across Leeds City Centre

New on-demand cycle parking scheme aims to improve bike security

Leeds has launched a new secure cycle parking scheme designed to help cyclists keep their bikes safe while travelling around the city centre. The initiative introduces weather-proof cycle hangars that offer secure storage options for both standard bicycles and cargo bikes.

Details of the cycle hangar scheme

The scheme has been developed by Hooplr in partnership with Leeds City Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority. Funding for the project was provided through the City Regional Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS).

There are currently ten hangars installed across the city centre:

• St Anne’s Street, LS1 8TL
• Bond Street, LS1 2JY (cargo-bike hangar)
• New Briggate, LS1 6NU
• City Square, LS1 2ES
• Park Square South, LS1 2FJ
• South Parade, LS1 5QS
• Edward Street (near Eastgate), LS2 7LY
• Kirkgate Market, LS2 7DF
• The Calls, LS2 7EW
• Waterloo Street, LS10 1JA

Each standard hangar accommodates up to six bicycles, while the cargo-bike hangar provides space for two cargo or adapted cycles. The units meet the Sold Secure Powered Cycle Diamond accreditation, the highest security standard currently available. They also feature secure ground anchor locking points compatible with various cycle frame types.

Access and usage

Users can manage bookings, lock and unlock the hangars, add credit, and locate available spaces via the Hooplr smartphone app. The service operates on a pay-as-you-go basis, with prices starting from 50p for up to two hours.

Officials’ comments

Councillor Peter Carlill, Leeds City Council’s executive member for transport and planning, highlighted the importance of secure parking in encouraging cycling. He noted that while Leeds has over 300km of safe cycle lanes, the lack of secure parking remains a significant barrier for many potential cyclists.

“This scheme provides a safe and accessible way for residents to securely park their bikes in the city centre,” Councillor Carlill said. “Schemes like this support our transport strategy by encouraging more sustainable travel and helping to reduce congestion in the city centre.”

Anthony Lau, Founder and Design Director at Cyclehoop, stated that the new hangars would give residents and visitors greater confidence to travel by bike and make better use of the city’s cycle network.

“By investing in practical, secure parking at key destinations, Leeds City Council is making cycling a more convenient and attractive option for everyday journeys,” he said. “This scheme helps remove a major barrier to cycling, giving people peace of mind that their bike will be safe while they work, shop or spend time in the city centre.”

Future plans

There are plans to expand the network of cycle hangars if the current scheme proves successful.

Additional information

• The over 300km of cycle lanes mentioned refers to hard infrastructure such as shared use paths, raised or protected cycle lanes, and other off-road provisions, excluding advisory lanes and bus lanes accessible to cyclists.
• The Hooplr smartphone app can be accessed here.