National award for University's cycling promotion scheme

The University of Southampton's cycling promotion scheme has received national recognition by winning an award at the National Cycling Conference in London.

The award, which was one of only six national awards made this year for projects which promote cycle use, was made to John Waugh, Transport Services Manager at the University.

At the awards ceremony, hosted by Transport for London, the judges reported that they were impressed with the University's comprehensive package of measures which include registration and security marking, 47 locked stores across its sites, the introduction of showers, technical help with punctures and breakages available on site and on call, and access for bikes on the University's Unilink buses.

John Waugh commented: "Through the development of such an all-embracing programme of support for cycle users, increasing numbers of Southampton students are returning to this traditional 'student' mode of transport. This has the added benefit that fewer students need the cost and hassle of car use while studying at Southampton."

The University scheme was nominated for the Award by the Hampshire Cycle Touring Club Group and the City Council. Pete Brunskill, Cycle Officer at the Council said: "It is excellent to have a national trendsetter for the Higher Education sector working successfully in Southampton. This has had a very positive effect in encouraging the accelerated growth of facilities to encourage wider cycle use in the City. Several schemes in hand and recently completed include work near Dock Gate 4, on the Avenue and on University Road itself.

"Part of a very active programme of cycle events planned for National Bike Week from 14 to 22 June will include a full day of events at the University."