Ayr’s new active travel hub is facing a shortage of bikes. The facility at Ayr Train Station is one of the first in Scotland.

Scotrail operator Abelio said more bicycles are on their way.
It is hoped that it will continue to promote sustainable forms of travel such as walking and cycling, making it easier for commuters, students and tourists to get active.

The project, which is part of the Smarter Choices, Smarter Places programme administered by Paths for All and funded by Scottish Government and the council’s Cycling Walking and Safer Streets initiative, will see the installation of an exciting new facility at the front of the station.

This prime location will help ensure maximum footfall for the hub and a member of staff from SUSTRANS is be on hand to provide helpful advice on routes, facilities, public transport options as well as points of interest to locals and visitors. 

People will also be able to hire bikes from the hub from spring 2017.

Councillor John McDowall, Sustainability and Environment Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said: “There are many sustainable travel options in South Ayrshire so it is great to have all of these promoted from a location which sees thousands of passers-by each day.

“From Barassie to Ballantrae, the hub highlights all our routes and encourage people to try active travel and build it into their everyday lives. 

“From early next year bikes will be available for hire from the hub, offering people the chance to take in some of our amazing scenery as they explore our extensive cycle path network.

“The hub is in a prime location and pulls together information on all our sustainable travel options. 

“It’s also a physical reminder that most of us can do a bit more when it comes to getting active — sustainable travel is not only good for the environment, it’s part of a healthy lifestyle.

“We are keen to find out what information and services people want from the hub when now it has opened, so please feel free to pass your thoughts on to the team. 

“In the meantime there are plans to introduce a cycle hire facility to give people the opportunity to explore our extensive cycle path network.”

We understand that new bikes should be in place but it is not yet clear when.