TRAVELLING in Bournemouth and Poole is set to be transformed with the arrival of a new bike share scheme boasting a thousand cycles.

A fleet of bicycles will be made available through the initiative, which will be similar in style to London's Boris bikes.

However, unlike the former mayor's scheme, the bikes available in the conurbation won't need docking stations, and can be unlocked using a smartphone app.

The vehicles will also be tracked with GPS so cyclists can easily find the nearest available.

Officials at Bournemouth and Poole councils have hailed the scheme as "revolutionary", and say it will alleviate congestion across both towns.

Councillor Mike Greene, Bournemouth council cabinet member for transport, said: "I strongly believe this is a fantastic move for Bournemouth and Poole and a significant step towards promoting sustainable transport in the conurbation.

"The aim is to provide a flexible and sustainable service that gives more choice to those who live, work or visit here."

Although there will be no pick up or drop off points for the bikes, users will be advised of preferred parking locations in high-demand areas via their apps.

Railway stations, shopping centres and tourist attractions are expected to be among the most popular locations for the bikes.

Once riders have finished their journey, they will slide the bike's lock back into place and park the vehicle on its side stand, with no need to secure it to a docking station, railing or cycle stand.

The scheme is expected to be rolled out this summer.

Cllr Ian Potter, Poole cabinet member for transportation, said: “This scheme has real potential to help cut congestion by encouraging a reduction in single occupancy car trips to bike for shorter journeys, while improving the health and wellbeing of our residents at the same time."

The ambitious scheme will incur no cost to either local authority, residents have been assured. Currently, the scheme is out for tender, and preparations for an 'effective and fair procurement process# are being made.

Companies which come forward to deliver the initiative will be assessed before the chosen supplier is asked to commit to an initial one year contract.

There will also be an option to extend the contract for two years.

As a result of this process, there will be no initial or ongoing cost to the councils. The operator will be required to supply the bikes, plus associated equipment and any management and maintenance of the service.

It will be an essential requirement for any provider to be accredited with the Bikeplus scheme, which provides an agreed industry standard.