MEMBERS of the cycling community have backed plans to introduce a new bike share initiative across the conurbation - although they have called for infrastructural work to improve safety.

In a joint project, Bournemouth and Poole councils have launched the scheme which will see a fleet of bicycles made available to the public.

The plans, which are due to be rolled out this summer, will see 1,000 bikes go onto the streets for the public to use.

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Unlike some city schemes, the bikes will not need to docked in set locations. Instead, users access the bikes through a smartphone app.

Jason Falconer, chairman of Bournemouth Cycling Forum, said this aspect of the project was very positive.

He said that he definitely plans to make use of the new bikes and thinks it is good to see local authorities working to offer alternative modes of transport.

“I think it is definitely a positive thing,” Mr Falconer said.

“These sort of schemes are used in a lot of other cities, but not in towns so it will be interesting to see the number of people who use them.”

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“The biggest problem the councils have got is getting people to change their mode of transport. Cars don’t work anymore. There is not enough space for them in built up areas.

“We are on this sea change in how towns are going to look in the future.”

Mr Falconer said in his opinion the initial focus of the scheme should be on student areas alongside the town centre.

He warned the councils would need to think carefully about the ensuring users, especially visitors, are aware of restrictions at the seafront.

Daniel Armstrong, owner of Southbourne cycle cafe Velo Domestique, said he was in favour of the project.

However, he suggested the authorities should consider improving the safety for cyclists when rolling out the scheme.

“It is a really good idea and I am totally on board with the council trying to invest more money in a scheme to get more people to cycle,” he said.

“Anything that gets people on bikes is great especially given how congested it gets here in the summer.”

“I think the council could also invest in safer infrastructure for cyclists. A lot of cities where these schemes are used are better equipped for safe cycling.

“People who might use these bikes could need that bit of extra space to be safe.”