PEDALLING commuters using Chelmsford train station will have Dutch style bike facility to use after a £600,000 investment.

A Cycle Point is being installed at the city’s station by train operator Greater Anglia providing an extra 1,000 spaces for bicycles to be parked and stored during the day, an increase of 40 per cent.

These slots will be monitored by security guards and CCTV cameras and will sit alongside cycling retail, hire and maintainance facilities.

The structure which is set to opened later this month will be the first set up by the train service provider and is based on a concept used at stations across The Netherlands.

Andrew Goodrum, Greater Anglia’s customer service director, said: “Cycle Point is set to transform and greatly improve cycle parking for the hundreds of commuters who cycle to Chelmsford station each day.

“We have worked closely with our partners at the city and county councils in developing these plans which will encourage even more commuters to cycle to the station, providing health and environmental benefits for Chelmsford residents.”

City and county councillor Stephen Robinson who is a keen bike rider welcomed the new facilities coming to the station, especially if they improve security.

Mr Robinson said: “Anything we can do to encourage cycling and making it easier for people to cycle around Chelmsford is a good thing.

“When the Lib Dems were in charge of Chelmsford, we invested money into cycle paths around the area, but now new paths and facilities seem to come up with new developments.

“I hope that there is provision will lead to increased security because I have experienced having my bike stolen from the station before like many other riders. Anything which makes it safer and more secure must be welcomed.”