NEW storage facilities for bikes have been installed in a bid to encourage more cycling across the city.

The hoops, which bikes can be locked around, will be placed by the Café Severn on Grandstand Road, South Quay, Commandery Gardens, Fort Royal Park, Cripplegate Park and Gheluvelt Park.

Mobile bike ports, which can be moved to other locations during events in the city, have been placed at Copenhagen Street, Croft Road and Pitchcroft car parks.

Cllr Joy Squires, chair of the environment committee, said: “It is clear that the best way we can improve air quality in Worcester is to encourage more people to leave their car at home and use alternative forms of transport.

"Investing in more facilities for cyclists is an important step towards achieving this."

The best locations were established after Sustrans, the UK charity which makes it easier for people to walk and cycle, held a consultation with local cycling and Friends of parks groups.

Worcester City Council, who have spent over £13,000 on the hoops, expect them all to be in place by the end of the month.

Results of a survey conducted on behalf of Worcester City Council at the end of 2015 showed that 43 per cent of those surveyed said that improved cycle paths and more bike storage facilities would encourage them to cycle more often.