DORSET’S first secure public cycle storage facility has officially opened in a town shopping centre.

Poole’s Dolphin centre partnered with BCP Council to deliver the cycle hub following a government grant, with the facility opening to members of the public on Monday, February 27.

Located by the Primark entrance to The Dolphin, the hub uses a cycle parking model provided by Spokesafe and includes secure parking for up to 34 bikes, cargo bikes and non-standard cycles.

The hub offers 24-hour access for members and affordable storage options start from £1 per day for Pay As You Go bookings. There are also various weekly and monthly membership packages available.

Bournemouth Echo: The new secure public cycle storage hub at Poole Dolphin Centre.The new secure public cycle storage hub at Poole Dolphin Centre. (Image: Legal & General)

Matt Banks, owner at Dolphin centre retailer Cycle Paths, said: “The new cycle hub is a great idea and I think it will be very well received by locals. Having a secure place to store your bike will give cyclists more reassurance when travelling into the town centre.”

Site owners Legal & General Investment Management Real Assets (LGIM) worked with the council to secure a £30,000 grant from the Department for Transport’s Active Travel Fund to open the modern facility.

Greg Westover of Legal & General said: “The hub is part of our wider strategy to offer the people of Poole with an accessible, sustainable, and community-focused centre that is suitable for everyone and their needs. It also adds to the wider conversation that is happening locally surrounding our mental health and wellbeing, by encouraging a more active and environmentally friendly lifestyle.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the benefits this will bring to the community, particularly as we head into spring.”

Bournemouth Echo: Members of BCP Council, BH Active Travel, Legal & General and The Dolphin at the new cycle hub.Members of BCP Council, BH Active Travel, Legal & General and The Dolphin at the new cycle hub. (Image: Legal & General)

Councillor Mike Greene, BCP Council’s member for transport and sustainability, added: “We are committed to helping to build more active communities where more people can choose cycling for shorter, everyday journeys.

“We hope that as many people as possible use this new facility and look forward to rolling out similar enterprises in the future.”

The cycle hub also offers a repair station and pump service, personal storage lockers, and electric charger points are also available for members to use while storing their e-bikes.

Visit spokesafe.com/dolphin-cycle-hub for more information.