SECURITY measures have been stepped up at a railway station. A secure cycle parking facility has been installed at Baldock railway station. For years the only place cyclists could lock up their bikes was on a dilapidated wooden fence. But after a long cam

SECURITY measures have been stepped up at a railway station.

A secure cycle parking facility has been installed at Baldock railway station.

For years the only place cyclists could lock up their bikes was on a dilapidated wooden fence.

But after a long campaign by Alasdair Massie, a representative of the Cyclists Touring Club (CTC), and the support of Herts County Council (HCC) and North Herts District Council (NHDC), people can park their bicycles at the station knowing they are safe.

Not only are there bike stands and a cycle shelter but there are now CCTV cameras that have been installed to improve security and a dropped kerb has been installed to make access to cycle parking easier.

Mr Massie said: "I was suffering continuous vandalism when I left my bike at the station but CTC are keen to get good quality facilities where people need them and to encourage people to think about how they travel.

"After 15 years of campaigning we have finally got what we asked for and hopefully the job is done. We're hoping the CCTV will deter vandalism.

"And we are encouraging everyone to put the facilities to good use especially if they are concerned about their waistline, carbon footprint, the effects on their wallet from car parking charges or the steely glares they get if they park down someone else's street.

"Since the stands were installed there has been an increase in the number of people cycling instead of driving to the station which is great news."

CCTV cameras have also been installed in the platform tunnel and car park.

Simon Young, NHDC's transport officer, who supported the campaign, said: "This work was well promoted by the CTC, and we have achieved it thanks to effective partnership working between the CTC, HCC, First Capital Connect and ourselves. I hope the improved security will encourage more people to cycle to Baldock station and leave their cars behind.