Bike thieves hit Cambridge CyclePoint despite CCTV and security staff

Three bikes have been stolen from Cambridge Railway Station’s CyclePoint in four days, despite the facility being covered by CCTV and receiving regular patrols by security staff. British Transport Police (BTP) are studying footage and have appealed for further information.

Located next to the city’s railway station in a building that will eventually house a Hotel Ibis, CyclePoint is Britain’s largest dedicated cycle parking facility and provides space for almost 3,000 bikes.

Figures from police.uk reveal that there has been a reduction in bike theft since it opened in February, but three have now been taken in four days.

BTP’s PC Matt Mildinhall told Cambridge News:

"We are investigating the theft of three bicycles from the CyclePoint facility at Cambridge station between Wednesday, 6 and Sunday, 10 April. Enquiries into the thefts are ongoing.

"Unfortunately, bicycles remain a popular target for thieves. We have a dedicated cycle theft investigation team and would advise cyclists to invest in a good quality D-lock and get their bikes securely marked and registered at www.bikeregister.com.

"Getting your cycle registered helps police trace recovered cycles and return them to their owners. Additionally it makes your property less appealing to would-be thieves. We regularly hold cycle surgeries where you can get your bike security marked for free at stations across the country, check our website for details of one near you."

"Anyone with information on the recent thefts is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016. Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

An Abellio Greater Anglia spokesperson said: "The £2.5 million CyclePoint provides safe and secure parking for cyclists. The CyclePoint has comprehensive CCTV and colleagues also carry out regular patrols. It's very important that cyclists use good quality locks when security their property. We are working closely with the British Transport Police, who are investigating this incident."

The free-to-use CyclePoint, which spans three floors, is open 24-hours a day, seven days a week. Bike parking is a combination of Sheffield stands and two-tier FalcoLevel Premium + racks which meet the Dutch national ‘FietsParkur’ standard for secure cycle parking. There is also an area on the ground floor for cargo bikes, tandems and other bikes unsuitable for parking elsewhere.