Norwich South MP Simon Wright hopes changes to the region's rail franchise will help boost a cycle hire scheme for the city

Changes to Norwich’s main rail operator could pave the way for a new cycle hire scheme for the city, an MP said today.

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Norwich South MP Simon Wright said he hoped rail operators could take the lead on introducing a cycle hire scheme to Norwich, following a meeting between Norfolk MPs and Stagecoach, one of three train operating companies hoping to win the Greater Eastern franchise, which includes the Norwich-London and Norwich-Cambridge services. South West Trains, part of the Stagecoach group, has already introduced cycle hire schemes to stations including Waterloo and Richmond Park.

Mr Wright said: “I was impressed to hear how Stagecoach have rolled out improvements to cycling facilities in other parts of the country, and I would urge whichever rail company wins the franchise in October to work with our local councils and the Department for Transport to develop a cycle hire scheme for Norwich.

“Norwich would benefit enormously from a cycle hire scheme based at the rail station,” he added. “It would help to tackle traffic congestion, promote healthy living, and cut carbon emissions by promoting cycling as an easy option for people to get around the city. There is limited car parking in Norwich, and every reason to encourage people to use public transport when visiting the city. This means connecting up our different types of transport more effectively, and cycling has a really important role to play as part of an integrated transport network in Norwich.”

Norwich North MP Chloe Smith, who was also at the meeting with North Norfolk MP Norman Lamb, said the MPs made clear the need to secure a high quality service, starting with the need to improve the Norwich-London line, the timetable, train quality, and customer service.

“The franchise will be awarded in the autumn and I hope all the three companies put forward a detailed plan for delivering what we need in Norfolk,” she said.