The West Midlands is experiencing a noticeable decline in the number of cyclists using designated parking at bus and railway stations. Data indicates that cycle parking counts dropped from 785 in the third quarter of 2024/25 to 629 in the same period of 2025/26. This decline has prompted the West Midlands Combined Authority to explore measures to reverse the trend and encourage more cyclists to use public transport facilities.
Concerns regarding cycle theft appear to be a significant factor in the reduced usage of cycle stations. A report presented to the West Midlands Combined Authority’s Transport Delivery Overview and Scrutiny Committee highlighted the impact of law enforcement actions against illegal e-motorbike usage, which began in July 2025. While these initiatives target illegal activity, they may inadvertently deter legitimate cyclists from using the facilities.
Efforts to Boost Cycle Usage
The report outlines that, despite the overall decline, monthly cycle counts at various stations have remained relatively stable, generally fluctuating between 200 and 300 since 2021. Pre-pandemic figures, which hovered around 500 to 600, have not been reached since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The shift towards hybrid working models may also influence these numbers, as cycling to stations could be skewed towards a more affluent and educated demographic.
To address the concerns surrounding cycle theft, the authority is collaborating with marketing teams to launch campaigns promoting the use of cycle parking at stations. The initiatives aim to highlight the success in reducing overall cycle theft in the region, which saw a 10% decrease in 2025 and a 12.6% drop in 2024, equating to a 21.4% reduction from the figures in 2023.
In addition to addressing theft concerns, the Customer Intelligence Team plans to monitor signs of theft at station locations. They will note any broken locks and abandoned bicycles requiring removal. Community engagement activities are also in the pipeline, particularly around the opening of five new train stations in Birmingham and Walsall, which aim to encourage cycling to these transport hubs.
Changes in Cycle Hire Operations
The report also noted a decline in West Midlands Cycle Hire usage, attributed to reduced bike availability as the current contract nears its end. A new operator, Lime, has been appointed to manage the regional cycle and e-scooter hire scheme, set to commence on April 1, 2026. This new arrangement will introduce both e-bikes and e-scooters to the West Midlands, potentially revitalizing interest in cycling.
Interestingly, e-scooter journeys have surged, with a reported 14.1% increase during the third quarter of 2025/26 compared to the same period the previous year. This growth suggests a shifting landscape in urban mobility preferences, highlighting the need for the West Midlands Combined Authority to adapt and provide suitable infrastructure for diverse transport modes.
As the authority evaluates strategies to enhance cycling infrastructure, the focus remains on understanding the specific locations that require attention to boost cycle parking numbers. By addressing theft concerns and promoting the benefits of cycling, the West Midlands aims to create an environment where cycling to public transport stations becomes a more appealing option for commuters.
